Professor Godfred Bokpin, a Finance and Economics lecturer at the University of Ghana Business School (UGBS), says political leaders only consider the populace when they are pressured.

“No Ghanaian should sit back thinking that politicians are actually thinking about them, no!,” he said, adding, “We have to establish some sort of incentive mechanism for them.”

He further remarked that if politicians feel they cannot meet the demands of the public, “they should resign, that’s all.”

Professor Bokpin made these comments during a discussion on how to reduce the national debt, increase domestic revenue generation, and enhance tax compliance on the Super Morning Show on Joy FM, on Monday, February 17.

He believes that real development in the country can only be achieved when the public sets up an incentive mechanism and ensures that political leaders adhere to it, as this is how developed nations have achieved their success.

“In advanced countries, the developments we see—and that we so desire—were fought for in the streets for days, for weeks. Development doesn’t just come like that,” he noted on the show.

Professor Bokpin also highlighted that one of the key factors contributing to tax non-compliance is the perception that political leaders are not using the generated revenue for the public good.

He said when citizens do not see tangible benefits in their communities, their willingness to pay taxes diminishes.

He emphasised the need to hold political leaders accountable and ensure that state funds are used for the benefit of all. In doing so, he believes that tax compliance will improve.