Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia, the National Chairman of the National Democratic Congress, has earnestly called upon pastors to embrace their influential roles within church communities by encouraging their members to diligently fulfill their civic responsibilities, particularly in terms of paying taxes. He draws a parallel between this duty and the spiritual guidance that pastors have historically provided to their congregations in matters of paying tithes and offerings.
Mr. Asiedu Nketia made this appeal during the 70th Anniversary Celebration of the Dormaa Ahenkro Presbyterian Hospital. In support of his argument, he referenced biblical teachings, noting that Jesus was once questioned about the necessity of tax payment, to which He responded, “Give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to Christ what belongs to Him.”
This biblical reference underscores the importance of spiritual leaders guiding their congregants in understanding the significance of tax payment, just as they do for tithes and offerings, to facilitate the development and progress of the nation.
He emphasized that taxes are vital for national development, including the construction of roads and other infrastructural advancements, making it imperative for all citizens to pay taxes promptly to foster progress.
Mr. Johnson Asiedu Nketia stated that the NDC assumed office and realized that the nation’s resources had been mismanaged by the NPP administration due to the non-payment of taxes and tax exemptions granted to party members. This situation shifted the tax burden onto a limited group of individuals, including those receiving monthly salaries from the Controller and Accountant General, as well as certain small-scale traders.
He underscored that the NDC administration is actively collaborating with relevant stakeholders to broaden the tax base and lower tax rates, ensuring that tax payments are convenient for all, thereby contributing to the nation’s advancement.
He concluded that individuals would willingly comply with tax obligations if they are informed about the utilization of these taxes in nation-building emphasizing that the NDC is committed to intensifying the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL), which aims to ensure the recovery of any funds misappropriated by members of the NPP during their eight-year tenure, with the intention of redirecting these funds towards developmental projects. This initiative is designed to motivate citizens to contribute more taxes in pursuit of progress and development. Additionally, he stated that any individual who misuses or squanders state funds will be required to make restitution in order to facilitate progress.
Story By: Kwaku Mensah Abrampa (Dormaa Ahenkro)
