The Finance Minister-designate, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, has reiterated the Mahama government’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing the Free Senior High School (SHS) policy, originally introduced by the Akufo-Addo administration.

This statement follows President Mahama’s promise during his 2024 campaign to build upon, rather than abolish, the policy.

Speaking during his vetting by the Appointments Committee of Parliament on January 13, Dr. Forson expressed his full support for the President’s pledge, highlighting the government’s intention to preserve and strengthen the policy for the benefit of students across the country.

“My party’s position on Free SHS has been well articulated by H.E President [John Dramani Mahama]. We do not intend to cancel the Free SHS. President Mahama has said the Free SHS has come to stay.

“I don’t think you need any further assurance. The President of the Republic of Ghana has made the statement, who am I as a minister that he has appointed? You have assurance from the highest level of the government to preserve the policy.”

He also reiterated his commitment to abolish the e-levy, and betting tax

He argued that both taxes hinder economic progress. Specifically, he pointed out that the E-Levy discourages digital transactions and obstructs the country’s move towards a cashless economy, while the betting tax generates minimal revenue.

“My position on the E-levy is well known and I do not intend to run from it. I have written articles against the e-levy, I championed the position against the e-levy and I still stand by it. The e-levy is neither a direct tax, an indirect tax, or an excise tax. I insist that the betting tax must be abolished and as Finance Minister, I will abolish it in my first budget because it has failed”.

Dr. Forson clarified that his position on the contentious taxes remains unchanged.

Several hours upon questioning from members of the appointment committee on his eligibility for the position of “Finance Minister”, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson has been duly vetted! The Committee will prepare a report and then subsequently submit it at the plenary for the entire August house to debate and approve or disapprove of his nomination.

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