Vice President of Imani Africa, Bright Simons, is calling on the government to provide a clear and transparent account of how funds generated from the Electronic Transaction Levy (E-Levy) have been utilized in terms of infrastructure and development.

This demand is based on the initial justification for the introduction of the E-Levy, which pledged that its proceeds would be dedicated to addressing the country's infrastructure and development needs.

Speaking on X on Thursday, November 23, 2023, Mr. Bright Simons emphasized the need for accountability, stating, "18 months after the E-Levy came into force, I think Ghanaians deserve an account of where the massive infrastructure and transformation certain MPs promised during the debate are. Who disagrees?"

The introduction of the E-Levy was met with both support and opposition. Mr. Davis Ansah Opoku, a Member of Parliament (MP) for Mpraeso under the New Patriotic Party (NPP), advocated for its acceptance.

Mr. Opoku highlighted that the government carefully considered the financial implications of the E-Levy, emphasizing its importance in generating funds for essential development projects despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Addressing the chiefs and people of Osubeng in the Kwahu South Municipality, Mr. Opoku acknowledged the concerns of Ghanaians but underscored the necessity of the E-Levy to fund critical projects outlined in the budget.

The e-levy policy faced rigorous debates and exchanges between the Minority and Majority in Parliament, ultimately taking effect on May 1, 2022.

Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta defended the E-Levy, asserting that it provided an opportunity for citizens to contribute to national development. He noted that despite parliamentary debates, Ghanaians largely supported the E-Levy, emphasizing the importance of explaining its merits and positive consequences to the public.