10% Tax on Betting: Insensitive Akufo Addo's Government Prioritizing Taxation Over Youth Unemployment- NDC Youth Blast Akufo Addo
The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Youth Activist of the Western Region, says recent decision by President Akufo Addo's government to impose taxes on sports betting reflects a clear insensitivity towards the dire problem of youth unemployment.
According to the youth of the NDC, this move not only highlights the government's misplaced priorities but also exposes its lack of consideration for the struggles faced by the nation's young population.
The concern was contained in an article released by Dindiego Thomas, an NDC youth Activist in the Western Region on Monday.
Mr. Dindiego Thomas who is an immediate past Wassa Amenfi East NDC Communications officer hinted that it's important for Ghanaians to delve deeper into the implications and consequences of this unjust taxation policy while questioning the government's commitment to its citizens.
Expressing his dismay about lack of jobs for the teaming youth, he emphasized that one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government is to prioritize job creation, especially for the youth but however, Regrettably, the Akufo Addo's government has failed miserably in living up to this expectation.
He said, the unemployment rate among the nation's young population continues to soar, while the government remains careless in implementing concrete plans and policies to address this crisis.
Mr. Dindiego believes, imposing taxes on sports betting without presenting viable alternatives to generate employment is not only shortsighted but also demonstrates an alarming lack of empathy towards the very citizens it should be serving.
The NDC Activist stated that the sports betting industry, often considered a controversial sector, possesses significant potential in terms of job creation and revenue generation.
However, "instead of harnessing this potential, the government has chosen to stifle its growth through heavy taxation. This effectively hampers the industry's ability to expand, innovate, and create more employment opportunities. By failing to recognize this potential and support its development, the Ghanaian government is actively hindering economic progress while turning a blind eye to the needs and aspirations of its young citizens." He stated.
Mr. Thomas Dindiego noted that the imposition of taxes on sports betting highlights the government's disregard for the entertainment needs of Ghana's youth.
"As a vibrant and energetic population segment, the youth seek outlets for enjoyment and leisure activities. Sports betting has gained popularity among the young generation, providing a form of entertainment and engagement. Rather than promoting and diversifying these options, the government's decision to tax this industry demonstrates a lack of understanding and respect for the interests and preferences of its citizens."
According to him, the Ghanaian youth are becoming increasingly disenchanted with a government that fails to show genuine concern for its people, adding that imposing taxes on sports betting without addressing the immediate and pressing issue of unemployment, the government erodes public trust and undermines its credibility.
He believes that this insensitivity breeds disillusionment and a sense of alienation among the citizens who rightly expect their leaders to prioritize their welfare.
The youth Activist added that It is high time for the NPP government to adopt a more proactive approach in tackling youth unemployment.
Moreover, Instead of resorting to short-sighted taxation strategies, the government should focus on creating an enabling environment for job creation to achieve through targeted investments in vocational training, financial incentives for small businesses, and the development of innovative programs that promote entrepreneurship.
He is optimistic that such comprehensive measures would not only address the unemployment crisis but also foster a sense of hope and prosperity for the country's youth.