Excitement rippled through the political arena as former Ghanaian football star Asamoah Gyan unexpectedly graced Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia’s policy address at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA) on Wednesday, February 7.
Gyan, renowned for his illustrious football career, joined a distinguished list of attendees, which included former President John Agyekum Kufuor, to hear Dr. Bawumia unveil his plans and policies for the nation. The address marked a pivotal moment as Dr. Bawumia, the ruling New Patriotic Party’s (NPP) presidential candidate for the 2024 elections, outlined his vision for Ghana’s future.
In a viral video capturing the moment, Gyan’s surprise entrance into the auditorium was accompanied by traditional music, adding an air of anticipation to the event. While it remains uncertain whether the former Sunderland and Al Ain striker will throw his support behind Dr. Bawumia in the upcoming presidential elections, his presence certainly added intrigue to the political gathering.
Amidst the buzz of Gyan’s appearance, Dr. Bawumia seized the opportunity to announce his pledge to abolish several taxes if elected as Ghana’s next president in December. Highlighting his commitment to fiscal reform, Dr. Bawumia emphasized his intention to eliminate taxes on gambling, lottery wins, emissions, and the controversial electronic levy (E-levy).
“In my administration, taxes on gambling will be a thing of the past. There will be no emissions tax, and by 2025, the 15% tax on electricity will be abolished,” declared Dr. Bawumia, outlining his bold fiscal agenda. He further elaborated on his proposed policies, assuring that they would create the necessary fiscal space to eliminate burdensome taxes without compromising deficit targets.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Dr. Bawumia’s address and Gyan’s surprise appearance underscore the intersection of sports and politics, sparking intrigue and anticipation ahead of the upcoming presidential elections.