An Assistant Commissioner of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Dominic Naab, ignited a fiery debate during a public forum on "Improving Domestic Resource Mobilisation and Combatting Illicit Financial Flows in Ghana: The Role of the Media and Other Stakeholders."

The focal point of discussion was the exemption of the President of Ghana from paying income tax, which Naab argued should be subject to a national conversation.

The gathering, held at the GNAT hall in Accra, witnessed a passionate exchange of opinions on this contentious matter.

Naab's explanation for the exemption was met with scepticism and discontent from many attendees.

He stated that the framers of Ghana's laws had considered the immense pressures and negative impacts of the presidential role, such as insults and scrutiny, and decided to provide an incentive by excluding presidents from paying income tax.

This rationale did not sit well with those present, who questioned why the president should be exempt while ordinary citizens, including those with limited financial means, were obligated to pay income tax.

In response to the growing uproar, Naab clarified that the GRA is an implementation agency and does not formulate tax laws.

He suggested that those dissatisfied with the existing provisions should initiate a national conversation on the matter.

Naab emphasised the importance of tax compliance among all Ghanaians and assured the audience that the GRA is actively working to widen the tax net and enhance the convenience and comfort of tax payment.

He highlighted the organisation's ongoing digitization efforts, refuting claims of discriminatory tax collection.

Furthermore, Naab pledged reforms in the communication strategy of the GRA to make tax education more accessible to the public. This commitment aims to ensure that Ghanaians have a better understanding of tax-related matters and their obligations.