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Pay your taxes - Chief Imam tells Muslims 

23rd August 2024 12:28:55 PM

2 mins read
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National Chief Imam of Ghana, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, has called on Muslims across the country to fulfil their civic duty by paying taxes, emphasizing that doing so is essential for sustainable national development. He expressed concern about the country’s growing indebtedness and urged the Muslim community to play their part in raising revenue for Ghana's development.

Speaking through his spokesperson, Sheikh Aremeyaw Shaibu, during a courtesy call by the newly constituted Board of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) on Thursday, the Chief Imam stressed that paying taxes is in line with Islamic teachings on supporting the less privileged and contributing to societal well-being.

“As Muslims, it is our obligation to engage in acts of charity, but it is equally important that we adhere to national laws, including the responsibility of paying taxes to support development projects,” the Chief Imam stated.The visit was part of the GRA's tax education month, during which the Board sought to introduce its new members to the Chief Imam and to foster collaboration on tax sensitization efforts.

The Chief Imam expressed willingness to partner with the GRA in outreach programs aimed at educating the public on tax compliance.Sheikh Sharubutu also encouraged all Imams across the country to use their platforms to promote the importance of tax payment, highlighting the direct connection between tax revenue and the provision of public infrastructure and services.

Additionally, he urged the GRA to ensure accountability and transparency in the collection and utilization of taxes, which he said would help build trust among citizens.In his remarks, Joe Ghartey, Chairman of the GRA Board, expressed concern over Ghana's low tax compliance rates, noting that only 40% of the country’s revenue comes from taxation.

He stressed that without adequate tax contributions, the country cannot undertake significant development projects or achieve financial independence."Ghanaians must start thinking about what they can contribute to the country in addition to what they expect from the government through their taxes. If we truly want to reach our developmental goals, we must pay our taxes," Ghartey said.

He added that reducing dependence on borrowing from development partners would strengthen Ghana’s economy and help pave the way for long-term growth.Other members of the GRA Board present at the meeting included Ms. Julie Essiam, the Commissioner-General; Brigadier General Ziblim Ayorrogo, Commissioner of the Customs Division; Ms. Pearl Darko, Commissioner in charge of the Support Services Division; and board members Ms. Susan Akomea and Mrs.

Araba Bosomtwe.As part of the visit, the GRA team also made a donation to the Chief Imam, presenting him with an undisclosed sum of money along with various items, including bags of rice, cartons of Frytol oil, bottled water, and soft drinks.The Chief Imam concluded by offering prayers for the leadership of the GRA and for continued peace in Ghana as the country approaches the next general elections.