A group of aggrieved youth, reportedly affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have gathered at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) headquarters to protest the appointment of Anthony Sarpong as Acting Commissioner-General.
President John Dramani Mahama announced Mr. Sarpong’s appointment on January 21, tasking him with the critical role of overseeing Ghana’s tax collection and revenue mobilisation efforts.
Mr. Sarpong, a seasoned accountant and auditor, previously served as a Senior Partner at KPMG, a globally renowned auditing and consulting firm. His appointment is widely seen as a strategic move to strengthen Ghana’s revenue systems amid mounting fiscal pressures and efforts to stabilise the economy.
Despite his impressive qualifications, sections of the NDC have expressed strong opposition to the appointment, citing Mr. Sarpong’s alleged ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). Critics argue that his perceived political affiliations could undermine the ruling party’s influence on key institutions and compromise its revenue agenda.
The protesters have urged President Mahama to revoke the appointment, contending that entrusting such a pivotal role to someone with alleged opposition links could jeopardize the party’s interests.
This development critics believe brings to internal tensions within the NDC, as it struggles to balance party loyalty with the need for capable leadership to tackle Ghana’s economic challenges.
The government is yet to address the protesters’ demands or issue an official response to the growing controversy.
