Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as ‘Cheddar,’ who has declared his candidacy for the Presidential position in Ghana’s upcoming general elections, is facing accusations of tax evasion by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
According to a reliable source at the GRA, Cheddar was fined a total of GH¢50,000.00 for his failure to file personal income tax returns from 2013 to 2016.
Despite settling a sum of GH¢209,171.00 between 2018 and 2020, he reportedly failed to file his returns for the post-2020 period.
For the years 2021-2022, the GRA estimated Cheddar’s tax assessment to be GH¢2,088,228 and GH¢5,096,536, respectively, along with penalties for his failure to file personal income tax returns.
The source expressed concerns about Cheddar’s involvement in a tax evasion scandal, stating that it not only raises questions about his financial practices but also casts doubt on his commitment to national development.
The source, considering Cheddar’s presidential candidacy and self-proclaimed role as a savior of Ghana, emphasized that his actions set a worrisome example for the ethical standards expected from individuals in influential positions.
The significant fines imposed by the GRA underscore the seriousness of Cheddar’s alleged tax evasion, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency, especially for those aspiring to lead the nation.
The source emphasized the importance of personal income tax as a crucial source of information regarding an individual’s investment activities and asset holdings. It plays a vital role in identifying potential unreported or questionable income, including transactions such as asset purchases.
The persistent failure to pay penalties raises broader questions about the sincerity and integrity of someone aspiring to lead the nation.
The source concluded by noting that the scandal is not just about an individual’s failure to pay taxes; it is about the societal impact of tax evasion and measuring the rhetoric of an aspiring president against his conduct.
Tax evasion diminishes resources available for essential public services, infrastructure development, and poverty eradication measures.