Finance Minister, Deputy file taxes publicly to boost compliance

Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, and his deputy, Thomas Nyarko Ampem, have publicly filed their annual tax returns in a move aimed at reinforcing compliance and boosting confidence in the country’s tax system.

The gesture, carried out during the observance of Tax and Good Governance Month, is being positioned as a symbolic demonstration of accountability at the highest level of government, with the Ministry of Finance urging citizens and businesses to follow suit.

Addressing the media after the filing, Dr Forson said the decision to make the process public was intentional and rooted in leadership by example. “We did so for a simple reason: leadership must be demonstrated, not declared,” he stated.

He underscored the central role of taxpayers in national development, describing their contributions as essential to sustaining the state and financing critical services. According to him, meeting tax obligations goes beyond legal requirements and reflects a shared civic duty.

“Paying taxes is a shared civic responsibility. It is the foundation of good governance and a cornerstone of national development,” he said.

Dr Forson stressed that compliance must be universal, insisting that all individuals and institutions are subject to the same legal expectations. “Compliance is not just a legal obligation. It is a moral responsibility. When each of us pays our fair share, the burden is distributed more equitably and development is accelerated,” he added.

He highlighted the importance of tax revenue in supporting key sectors, noting that government expenditure on education, healthcare, infrastructure and security is largely driven by domestic revenue mobilisation. “Tax revenue is what funds our schools, hospitals, roads, and security systems,” he said.

The Finance Minister also commended the Ghana Revenue Authority for ongoing reforms and public education efforts, urging the agency to deepen its outreach and simplify compliance procedures to encourage wider participation.

“I commend the GRA for its work and urge the Authority to intensify public education and continue reforms to simplify processes, reduce compliance costs, and improve transparency,” he said.

Reaffirming the government’s backing for the Authority, Dr Forson said the Ministry remained committed to supporting measures that strengthen revenue collection and enhance efficiency within the tax system.

He further called on individuals and businesses that are yet to file their returns to do so promptly, leveraging digital platforms introduced to ease the process. “A strong tax culture strengthens economic stability, deepens accountability, and builds a fairer society,” he added.