By Edward Dankwah, GNA
Accra, April 30, GNA – Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, Minister for Finance, together and his Deputy Mr. Thomas Nyarko Ampem have filed their Personal Income Tax (PIT), urging all Ghanaians to comply with tax obligations to support national development.
He said the gesture was to demonstrate that public officials were equally bound by tax laws and must actively participate in the process.
During the event, Dr Forson congratulated Ghanaian taxpayers for their continued contribution to the economy, noting that their efforts remained vital in sustaining government operations and development initiatives.
He emphasised that paying taxes was both a civic duty and a moral responsibility, stressing that no individual or institution was above the law, and that compliance must be universal among citizens, businesses, and professionals.
The Minister explained that tax revenue played a critical role in financing essential public services, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security, adding that equitable contribution ensured shared national progress.
He noted that timely tax payment strengthened economic stability and reduced reliance on borrowing, pointing out that Ghana could not continue to depend on debt to fund development.
Dr Forson highlighted ongoing reforms by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to modernise tax administration, making compliance simpler, fairer, and more transparent through digital platforms and improved service delivery.
He commended GRA for dedicating April to tax and good governance awareness month.
The Minister urged the Authority to intensify tax education nationwide, stressing that increased awareness was key to improving compliance and fostering a strong tax culture.
He called on all taxpayers who were yet to file their returns to do so promptly, encouraging them to seek assistance from GRA offices and approved channels where necessary.
Dr Forson reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the GRA in mobilising domestic resources, urging all residents in Ghana, including non-citizens earning income, to meet their tax obligations.
Dr. Martin Kolbil Yamborigya, Commissioner, Domestic Tax Revenue Division, GRA, announced a one-month extension for the filing of personal income tax returns, with penalties waived for individuals who comply within the new period.
He said the decision followed the example set by the Minister of Finance and his deputy, who filed their returns publicly to promote voluntary compliance.
Dr Yamborigya commended the Ministers for demonstrating leadership, noting that their action reinforced the importance of tax compliance as a civic duty.
He urged ministers, Members of Parliament, public officials, and all eligible taxpayers to emulate the gesture by filing their returns promptly and accurately.
The Commissioner said failure to file personal income tax returns attracted a penalty of GH¢500 and an additional GH¢10 for each day of default under the law.
He, however, announced that the Authority would apply provisions of the Revenue Administration Act to waive penalties for individuals who file their returns between now and the end of May.
He called on all taxpayers, including employees and sole proprietors, to take advantage of the extension and fulfil their obligations, stressing that a strong tax culture was key to building a prosperous nation.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei