The statement that “Ghanaians don’t like paying taxes, but they want everything from the government” is a common sentiment that reflects a broader, more nuanced issue. While it may seem contradictory, this attitude is rooted in historical, socio-economic, and governance-related factors that shape the relationship between the Ghanaian public and the state. To fully understand this dynamic, it is essential to explore the history of taxation in Ghana, the reasons behind tax aversion, and citizens’ expectations of their government.
Taxation in Ghana has a long history, dating back to pre-colonial times when traditional rulers collected tributes and levies from their subjects. However, the modern tax system was largely shaped during the colonial era, when the British administration introduced taxes to fund infrastructure and administrative costs. These taxes were often met with resistance, as they were seen as exploitative and imposed without the consent of the local population. This historical legacy has left a lingering mistrust of taxation among Ghanaians.
Post-independence, successive governments have introduced various tax regimes to generate revenue for national development. However, these efforts have often been met with public skepticism and resistance. The introduction of new taxes, such as the Value Added Tax (VAT) in the 1990s, led to widespread protests and even riots, highlighting the deep-seated aversion to taxation.
Tax avoidance has become somewhat normalized in Ghana, with many individuals and businesses finding ways to evade taxes. This culture is perpetuated by a combination of weak enforcement mechanisms, loopholes in the tax system, and a general lack of awareness about the importance of taxation. Additionally, the perception that “everyone is doing it” reduces the social stigma associated with tax evasion.
Despite their reluctance to pay taxes, Ghanaians have high expectations of their government. Citizens expect the government to provide essential services such as healthcare, education, infrastructure, and security. This expectation is rooted in the social contract between the state and its citizens, where taxes are supposed to fund public goods and services. However, the gap between these expectations and the reality of service delivery exacerbates the reluctance to pay taxes.
The relationship between Ghanaians and taxation is complex and deeply rooted in historical, social, and economic factors. While it is true that many Ghanaians are reluctant to pay taxes, this reluctance is not without reason. Addressing the underlying issues of trust, governance, and public engagement is essential to building a more compliant and cooperative tax culture. By fostering a sense of shared responsibility and demonstrating the tangible benefits of taxation, Ghana can move towards a more sustainable and equitable tax system that benefits all citizens.
By Alim
