Nana Kwame Bediako, popularly known as ‘Cheddar' and a presidential hopeful in Ghana's upcoming general elections, is facing accusations of tax evasion from the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
According to a GRA source, Cheddar incurred a fine of GH¢50,000.00 for failing to file personal income tax returns from 2013 to 2016. Despite settling GH¢209,171.00 between 2018 and 2020, he allegedly failed to file returns for the post-2020 period.
For the years 2021-2022, the GRA estimated Cheddar's tax assessments at GH¢2,088,228 and GH¢5,096,536, respectively, with penalties for non-compliance.
The GRA source expressed concerns about Cheddar's involvement in a tax evasion scandal, raising questions about his financial practices and commitment to national development.
“As a presidential candidate and self-proclaimed saviour of Ghana, his actions set a worrisome example for the ethical standards expected from individuals in influential positions,” the source stated.
The substantial fines imposed underscore the severity of Cheddar's alleged tax evasion, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency, particularly for those aspiring to lead the nation.
The source stressed the crucial role of personal income tax in revealing information about an individual's investment activities and assets, and identifying potential unreported income or questionable transactions.
“This 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,” the source concluded.