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The President of Ghana could soon be required to pay taxes on his salary, allowances and certain benefits if proposed constitutional reforms are approved.
The recommendation forms part of proposals by the Constitutional Review Consultative Committee aimed at reviewing aspects of the 1992 Constitution and promoting greater accountability and equality among public officials.
Currently, Article 68(5) of the Constitution provides tax exemptions for the President’s salary, allowances, facilities and other benefits. However, the proposed reforms seek to remove this special exemption, making the President subject to the same tax obligations as other Ghanaian workers.
Under the proposal, the President would pay income tax on his earnings and also be liable for indirect taxes, including taxes on goods and services purchased.
Supporters of the proposal argue that it would strengthen the principle of equality before the law and demonstrate that national leaders share the same responsibilities as ordinary citizens.
The recommendation is, however, not yet law. It will have to go through Ghana’s constitutional amendment process before any changes can take effect.
Story by Efua Nessa