A professional development communicator and social advocate with a strong passion for institutional and human development, Geoffrey Kabutey Ocansey has underscored the need for President John Dramani Mahama to take tax communications seriously.
He explained that communicating to Ghanaians on tax issues, what the taxes have been used for, will ensure trust and make Ghanaians feel proud in paying their taxes.
The financial analyst stated that tax revenue will increase if the government invests in tax communication.
Compliance, he lamented, was low because Ghanaians don’t easily get access to credible information on tax-related issues.
Speaking on Frontline on Rainbow Radio 87.5 FM, he noted, Communicating with taxpayers or engaging with them is crucial in modern tax administration. It will promote voluntary compliance and trust in the tax system. It will also prevent a breach of the tax laws.
He emphasised that every tax administration communication strategy should be structured in such a way that it educates taxpayers about procedures and deadlines while also making citizens aware of their tax obligations. It is critical to inform them of the amount collected and its intended use.
He told host Kwabena Agyapong that the government should also concentrate on the informal sector by improving collection of rent taxes, property rates in the construction industry, and other skilled labourers.
On the promise to scrap some taxes, he advised the government to proceed cautiously, saying, “If the government wants to deliver on the promise to scrap some taxes, that is good news, but I will advise that they proceed cautiously.” We should not rush into a decision that will cause us problems. The best approach is to take some time, engage with Ghanaians across the country for six months, and put in place measures to help us pay or deal with some of the challenges before returning to parliament and getting these taxes scrapped”.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
