Government spokesperson, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has defended the decision to remove taxes on betting winnings, arguing that many young people rely on betting as a means of survival due to economic hardship and lack of employment opportunities.
Speaking on JoyNews’ Roundtable on Wednesday, March 12, during discussions on the 2025 budget, Kwakye Ofosu acknowledged that while betting is not the “most desirable” activity for young people, it has become a source of solace for many who are struggling financially.
“We find that there were many youth who were driven into that activity because of hardship and the need for them to find something to do to make ends meet,” he stated.
“It is not the most desirable of occupations, or if you like, hobbies, but at the moment, many people are finding solace there.”
He explained that taxing the winnings of bettors, especially when jobs have not been created for them, only worsens their economic situation.
