According to a report from GhanaWeb, former Dome Kwabenya MP, Sarah Adwoa Safo, has expressed that she stands by her choice to abstain from voting on the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) in Parliament in 2022.
In a recent interview on Asempa FM, she explained that her decision was driven by the potential financial strain the levy would place on everyday Ghanaians who are already facing difficulties.
Safo mentioned that she found herself in a dilemma between her loyalty to the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the needs of her constituents.
Several members of the NPP opposed the E-Levy due to the burden it would create for those struggling to make a living.
This situation deeply affected her, prompting discussions with her father and reflecting on her commitments to both her church and political party.
In her constituency, many church members were against the levy, leading her to make a definitive choice to abstain from the vote.
“Some NPP members kicked against the E-Levy because of the hardship it would impose on the ordinary Ghanaians who are struggling to make ends meet. It did not sit well with me, I had discussions with my father, and I was torn between my church and my political party,” she stated.
She expressed hope for a future in which MPs will demonstrate the courage to oppose government policies when necessary.
The E-Levy was ultimately approved in Parliament, following a walkout by the Minority on March 29, 2022.
Additionally, the current government under John Dramani Mahama has announced plans to abolish the levy, with the removal set to take place at the end of March 2025.