Member of Parliament for Weija-Gbawe, Jerry Ahmed Shaib, has raised red flags over the sources of funding outlined in the proposed Sports Fund Bill.
He cautioned that certain provisions could be interpreted as a rebranding of the betting tax, calling for greater transparency from lawmakers.
Mr. Shaib made the remarks while contributing to the debate on the floor of Parliament.
He questioned references to proceeds from special sports lotteries and sought clarity on their true meaning.
“Speaker, are we looking at betting? Is that also a way to redirect the betting tax? Are we being real with this?” he asked.
The MP stressed that Parliament must be upfront if betting tax revenues are intended to support the fund.
“If it is betting tax, we should say it is 10 percent of fees and charges accrued from the Gaming Commission,” he said.
According to him, any ambiguity surrounding the funding structure risks eroding public confidence in the initiative.
Mr. Shaib therefore urged Parliament to adopt a more open and honest approach in outlining how sports development will be financed.
