Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, the Commissioner General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), has strongly refuted allegations that he and his family have fled Ghana amidst the unfolding $100 million Strategic Mobilisation Ghana Limited (SML) corruption scandal. These claims, which have stirred considerable public interest, were addressed by Dr. Owusu-Amoah himself, confirming his presence and ongoing duties in Ghana.
This clarification comes in the wake of speculations initiated by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Member of Parliament for North Tongu. On January 10, 2023, Ablakwa asserted via social media platform ‘X’ that Dr. Owusu-Amoah had absconded from the country, along with his family, just hours before President Akufo-Addo demanded an investigation into the matter.
In a candid conversation with Joy Business, Dr. Owusu-Amoah emphasized the baselessness of these claims. “I am back in the country after a brief visit outside the country which was planned earlier this year,” he remarked, dispelling the rumors of his alleged escape due to the scandal.
According to a report by The Ghana Sentinel, the Commissioner General reassured the public of the GRA’s unwavering commitment to its legal mandate. The authority, under his leadership, continues to prioritize revenue generation for Ghana’s economic development. He highlighted the collective dedication of the GRA’s staff and personnel in supporting the current administration’s revenue targets for the year.
Amidst the challenges faced by the authority, Dr. Owusu-Amoah remains optimistic about improving tax compliance through constructive engagement with businesses and individuals. He stands firm in his role, guiding the GRA through the tumultuous waters of the alleged scandal while maintaining the focus on the authority’s crucial objectives.
The allegations against Dr. Owusu-Amoah have sparked a significant discussion in the country, with many looking to the outcome of the ongoing investigation into the SML corruption case. This situation underscores the broader issues of accountability and transparency within Ghana’s public sector, especially in financial and revenue-related institutions.
