The Moderator of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG), Rt. Rev. Dr. Lt. Col. Divine Agbeko, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to eliminate what he called “naughty” taxes introduced by the previous government under Nana Akufo-Addo.
Speaking at the induction service for Pr. Dr. Mrs. Salomey Praise Otami-Abutiate as Presbyter Executive of the EPCG, Rt. Rev. Agbeko criticised taxes that he claimed burden Ghanaians already facing economic difficulties. He described these taxes as unfair, stating that they have taxed money multiple times and are draining citizens financially.
“The taxes are just sucking from you. Take those naughty taxes away and do something better,” he said, suggesting that President Mahama should focus on removing such taxes as a priority.
He also advocated for the reinstatement of the tollbooth system as a means to generate revenue for improving the country’s road networks. “You can use the tollbooth tax to maintain roads,” he added, offering his services to oversee the collection and usage of road taxes effectively.
Agbeko further commented on the economic challenges faced under the Akufo-Addo administration, saying Mahama’s return to office was a response to the people’s prayers for change. He advised the President to govern with the country’s best interests in mind and avoid the mistakes of the past, particularly favouritism towards friends and family in decision-making.
“The people of Ghana need a leader who will put the country first, not individual interests,” he said.
Although the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) has promised to remove certain taxes, including the controversial E-levy and COVID-19 levy, economists have cautioned that the country’s fiscal challenges may make it difficult to follow through on such promises without jeopardising development.
Meanwhile, Joyce Bawah Mogtari, Special Aide to President Mahama’s 2024 campaign, reiterated the NDC’s commitment to abolishing the taxes as outlined in their manifesto.
The service, held at the Elorm Parish in Ho, also marked the induction of Pr. Dr. Mrs. Otami-Abutiate, who brings a wealth of expertise in philosophy, languages, and education to her new role.
Source:TheDotNews