Pius Enam Hadzide, the CEO of the National Youth Authority (NYA), expressed enthusiasm about the government’s introduction of a 10% tax on bet and lottery winnings. He believes this measure will discourage gambling, particularly among young people. In an interview with Bernard Avle on Citi TV’s The Point of View, Hadzide emphasized the need to deter youth from gambling, as it could be detrimental for a nation if its youth becomes fixated on such activities.
Hadzide noted the rise in gambling incidents affecting even children’s education, with young individuals in uniforms seen participating on betting sites. He highlighted that Ghana’s values revolve around hard work and honesty, emphasizing that the culture of seeking quick riches through gambling is a perilous path for any nation in the long run.
The NYA CEO praised the government for taking steps, both legislatively and through taxation, to discourage excessive betting, given the youth’s increasing involvement. He mentioned that the government’s response aligns with their advocacy and concern, as excessive gambling among the youth could become a major issue in the future.
Hadzide also criticized the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) for their objections to the 10% betting tax. He expressed disbelief at the notion that betting should be seen as a solution to youth employment challenges, and he mentioned that even members of the NDC, like Ato Forson, have called for the banning of all forms of betting.
In response to the NDC’s criticism, the CEO of NYA chastised the party for encouraging youth to oppose the government’s efforts.