A heated confrontation broke out in Parliament on Tuesday after the Minority accused the government of attempting to reintroduce the controversial Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) through a proposed 0.75 per cent charge on wallet-to-bank transfers.
The disagreement between Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin and Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga briefly disrupted proceedings, forcing First Deputy Speaker Bernard Ahiafor to intervene and order portions of the exchanges removed from the official parliamentary records.
The clash followed recent public backlash over a proposed fee announced by Mobile Money Fintech Limited (MMFL), which was expected to take effect on June 1, 2026, before being suspended by the Bank of Ghana (BoG).
Rising before the commencement of parliamentary business, Mr. Afenyo-Markin questioned the rationale behind the proposed charge, arguing that it mirrored the now-repealed E-Levy.
He claimed the government was using the central bank to indirectly restore a tax policy it had publicly abolished.
However, Majority Leader Mahama Ayariga strongly objected to the remarks, describing the Minority Leader’s intervention as inappropriate and contrary to parliamentary procedure.
Mr. Ayariga insisted that Parliament must adhere to its rules and warned against turning the chamber into a scene of disorder.
The exchange intensified as both leaders defended their positions, prompting the First Deputy Speaker to restore order and direct that parts of the debate be expunged from the parliamentary record.
Meanwhile, the Bank of Ghana has instructed MMFL to suspend implementation of the proposed fee pending broader stakeholder consultations.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the central bank said the decision was intended to ensure fairness within the mobile financial services sector while safeguarding consumer interests.
The proposed charge has triggered widespread debate among the public, with concerns mounting over its possible impact on digital transactions, mobile money usage, and financial inclusion efforts across the country.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
