The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana (EPCG), Rt Rev Dr Lt Col Divine Agbeko, has urged President John Dramani Mahama to take decisive steps toward eliminating what he described as “naughty stealing taxes.” These taxes, he said, are overly burdensome on citizens and detrimental to the economic well-being of Ghanaians.
Speaking during the induction ceremony for Pr. Dr. Mrs. Salomey Praise Otami-Abutiate as Presbyter Executive of the General Assembly of the EPCG at the Elorm Parish in Ho, Dr Agbeko specifically criticized tax policies introduced by the previous Akufo-Addo administration. He argued that these measures have created an unfair system of repeatedly taxing the same money.
Calls to End Regressive Tax Policies
Dr Agbeko did not mince words as he described the toll of Ghana’s current tax structure on ordinary citizens. According to him, the government has been “sucking” money from its citizens by implementing multiple layers of taxes, which often end up being paid on the same funds. He pointed to taxes on money transfers and other financial transactions as examples of policies that unfairly burden taxpayers.
“Take the naughty stealing taxes that can even tax money in your pocket after it has been taxed—they will tax it again. You want to send money, they will take it again. So, everywhere, they are just sucking from you. Take those naughty taxes away and do something better that will replace the tax,” Dr Agbeko said, urging President Mahama to chart a new course in tax reform.
Advocating for Practical Alternatives
The clergyman proposed a return to the tollbooth tax as a more effective and equitable way to generate revenue for road maintenance. He noted that the tollbooth system, if managed properly, could provide the funds necessary to improve the country’s road infrastructure without overburdening taxpayers.
“You can use the tollbooth tax to maintain roads. The tollbooth tax is not to be consumed by those who take the ticket and chop. If you like, give it to me. If you like, give the road tax collection to me, and I will start building the roads. If you like, try me,” he declared, expressing his confidence in the potential of efficient tollbooth management to transform Ghana’s road networks.
A Warning Against Cronyism
Dr Agbeko also took the opportunity to caution President Mahama against falling into the traps of favoritism and cronyism, which he said were among the criticisms levelled against his previous administration. He emphasized the importance of avoiding practices that prioritize the interests of a select few at the expense of the broader Ghanaian populace.
“Mahama will have a hard time, but with the help of God and learning from the past, he must not repeat those things for which he was labelled incompetent. He must not repeat them,” Dr Agbeko advised.
He further urged the President to resist pressures from friends, family members, and political allies to distribute resources and opportunities unfairly. “He should not look into the faces of friends, families, and cronies and say, ‘You take here, you take here.’ That attitude will not help him. He must choose and do things in the interest of the good of Ghana—not for an individual,” he said.
Learning from the Past
The moderator acknowledged that President Mahama faces significant challenges as he embarks on his leadership journey once again. However, he expressed optimism that the former president’s previous experience could guide him in making better decisions this time around.
Dr Agbeko underscored the need for Mahama to demonstrate a renewed focus on accountability and transparency. By doing so, he said, the President could help restore trust in government and rebuild public confidence in its ability to serve the nation effectively.
“Ghanaians are watching, and they are expecting more. The mistakes of the past must become lessons for the future. This is an opportunity for Mahama to rise above political pressures and deliver on his promises for the good of the nation,” Dr Agbeko concluded.
Renewed Hope for Change
Dr Agbeko’s remarks come at a time when many Ghanaians are grappling with economic hardships and seeking relief from policies perceived as regressive and exploitative. His call for the elimination of “naughty stealing taxes” resonates with citizens who feel overburdened by the cost of living and the weight of financial obligations.
As the Mahama administration settles into office, the call for equitable tax reforms and a renewed focus on national development is expected to shape public discourse. Many hope that the government will take bold steps to address the concerns raised by influential voices like Dr Agbeko and prioritize the interests of the Ghanaian people above all else.
The clergyman’s plea also highlights the role of religious and civil society leaders in holding government accountable and advocating for policies that promote fairness and justice. For many, his message serves as a reminder that true leadership lies in the ability to put the needs of the nation first.
With these words of caution and encouragement, the onus now lies on President Mahama and his team to heed the advice, address the challenges, and steer Ghana toward a more equitable and prosperous future.
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