Our President’s call to retain E-levy personal; not an official position – GUTA

Leadership of the Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has distanced itself from recent comments by its President, Dr. Joseph Obeng, advocating for the retention of the E-Levy.

The association clarifies that, the comments reflect the personal opinions of its President and not the official position of the group.

Dr. Obeng had said retaining the E-levy could support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and the proposed Women’s Development Bank.

He argued that, the E-levy if retained, could serve as a consistent revenue stream for developmental projects, including financial empowerment for women in trade and SMEs.

In a press release however, GUTA stated, “we wish to emphatically state herein that his opinion does not represent the stand of GUTA on the matter, though we respect his personal views.”

While GUTA acknowledged the need for innovative funding solutions to bolster business growth and empower women in trade, it reiterated that decisions on revenue generation mechanisms should rest with the government.

Dr. Obeng’s stance contrasts sharply with the opposition National Democratic Congress’ (NDC) campaign promise to abolish the E-Levy, which they insisted was a financial burden on Ghanaians.

The E-Levy which is a one percent charge on electronic transfers was introduced by the former New Patriotic Party (NPP) government and has faced widespread criticism from businesses.

Source: citinewsroom.com