How Some Ghanaians React to 2025 Budget on X as Tax Reforms Stir Debate

First budget of the year presented to parliament throws Ghanaians into excitements, as majority welcome the government’s yet to be implemented initiatives.

Following the presentation of the 2025 Budget by Finance Minister Casiel Ato Forson, a wave of support has swept across social media and public discourse. The minister unveiled a financial blueprint aimed at bolstering various sectors of the economy through strategic fund allocations, a move that has resonated positively with many Ghanaians.

Founding President and chief executive officer of IMANI Centre for Policy and Education Franklin Cudjoe underscoring the government‘s fiscal management expected to benefit different sectors of the economy, on social media applauded the minister’s measures, describing the budget as “humane” and “fresh air,” noting, “Smart Finance Minister. Reducing tax refund to take care of eliminated taxes? Didn’t see that coming.”

Adding to the excitement over the budget, sports journalist Fentuo Tahiru offered further insight into a key shift in budget strategy within the sporting sector. He explained the change in presentation format, suggesting that the decentralized model for sector ministers to present their own budget and programme performance and outlook may enhance transparency and accountability. Tahiru remarked, “By the way, the reason you didn’t hear anything on sports is because the finance minister says going forward, sector ministers will be allowed to present their own budget and programme performance and outlook. I don’t hate that idea to be honest.”

Social media user, Governor, summed up the public sentiment, saying “Ghana is really resetting, I really like how this new government is coming up. All the best.” One comment encapsulated the broader optimism, stating, “The 2025 Budget stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to redefining Ghana’s economic future, an effort that, despite controversies, has ignited optimism for a reset in fiscal policy.”

However, the new budget has not been without its controversies. Members of the opposition party, including vocal NPP supporters, have expressed both admiration and political criticism. One NPP-affiliated commenter lamented, “How did we (NPP) wanted to put such brilliant cheerful young man in his 40’s to jail? Such a brilliant budget would have (been) being missed by Ghanaians (because ) cos the good finance minister would have (been) being in jail. Sad!” Others have questioned the funding of key initiatives. As Samuel Osei asked, “ So how is the Agency for the 24 hour economy going to be funded when it’s not budgeted for?” kelvin Boafo also commented, “You can tell Ghanaians are just accepting this budget out of pain just to make the Npp government look bad a budget that didn’t explain their main policy during the campaign( 24 hour economy), SONA also failed to do same…. betting tax and E-levy is still active!!!! #bettingtax”

Adding another layer to the debate, former Finance Minister Amin Adam’s assertion that his administration did not collect the now-abolished 10% betting tax has sparked further questions among the public. Critics and netizens have dismissed his claims as misleading, while many question the logic behind former Vice President Bawumia’s earlier campaign to abolish the tax. Meanwhile, the budget’s comprehensive reform agenda also includes the abolition of the Electronic Levy (E-Levy), a decision that has received robust support from the public.

Last Updated on March 11, 2025 by samboad