A group of aggrieved youth, believed to be affiliated with the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have gathered at the headquarters of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) to protest the appointment of Anthony Sarpong as Acting Commissioner-General.
On January 21, President John Dramani Mahama announced Mr. Sarpong’s appointment to the strategic role, responsible for overseeing Ghana’s tax collection and revenue mobilisation efforts.
Mr. Sarpong, an accomplished accountant and auditor, previously served as a Senior Partner at KPMG, a globally respected auditing and consulting firm.
However, his appointment has been widely regarded as a strategic move to bolster Ghana’s revenue systems at a time when the government faces pressure to meet fiscal targets and stabilise the economy.
Despite his qualifications, some NDC members have opposed the appointment, claiming Mr Sarpong has ties to the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP). This has raised concerns about his loyalty to the government’s revenue agenda and the ruling party’s influence over key institutions.
Protesters have called on President Mahama to rescind the appointment, arguing that placing someone perceived as aligned with the opposition in such a critical role could compromise the party’s interests.
The controversy highlights tensions within the ruling NDC as it balances party loyalty with the need for competent leadership to address pressing economic challenges.
The government is yet to respond to the calls for reconsideration of the appointment
