I can’t abolish the E-Levy until I’m told to do it” – CEO of MTN Ghana

Chief Executive Officer of MTN Ghana, Stephen Blewett, has stated that the removal of the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) cannot take immediate effect without official directives, despite President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to scrap the tax.

Speaking at his first media engagement after a year in office, Blewett stressed that telecom operators must adhere to regulatory protocols before ceasing E-Levy deductions.

“There is a process that has to be followed. I can’t abolish the E-Levy until I’m told to do it. If I do it ahead of time, the Bank of Ghana will catch me,” he remarked, underscoring the importance of regulatory oversight.

He acknowledged the negative impact of the E-Levy on mobile money transactions and expressed optimism that its removal would rejuvenate the sector.

“The reason for the abolishment of E-Levy is to encourage momentum in mobile money,” he noted, explaining that the tax had deterred digital transactions since its introduction in 2022 at 1.75%, later reduced to 1%.

Blewett reassured the public that MTN Ghana is prepared to act swiftly once the official directive is given.

“We will follow the process. And once it’s gone, mobile money will regain its strength,” he affirmed.

His comments follow President Mahama’s fulfillment of a campaign promise to abolish the E-Levy, Betting Tax, and Emissions Tax. However, the timeline for implementation now depends on regulatory approval from the Bank of Ghana and other relevant authorities.

Source: GhanaNewsOnline