Getting more revenue for govt: Mahama must clear all obstacles

Revenue that will be use to improve the lives of the average Ghanaian, does not have political colours.

It is against this background that President John Dramani Mahama must not hesitate to sanction anyone who would become an impediment to any attempt by government to raise revenue.

The Special Operations Unit (SOU) set-up under his office is a short term measure aimed at reducing to the barest minimum, instances of under declaration of import duties.

This under declaration between some dishonest importers and some greedy customs officials: Since its inception 4 months ago, the SOU has on the average recovered over GH¢150, 000 every week and this amount is significant because it is the outcome of sporadic stoppage of vehicles for inspection.

The SOU is not made up of angels, but no one can say that they have not achieved anything. If importers have proof of any alleged extortion by the SOU, they should expose them. But currently, about 8-10 vehicles have been impounded by the SOU for not obeying simple rule of carrying evidence of payment of duties on goods on board vehicles.

When these vehicles were arrested, it took the owners over 2-4 days to bring up so-called receipts which are being cross-checked.

Below is published unedited, a statement from the SOU as regards some alleged corruption.

SOU DENIES EXTORTING MONEY FROM IMPORTERS

It has come to the attention of the Special Operation Unit that the Moment newspaper carried a story on the front page of its issue 18th September 2013, headlined “Extortion @ Tema Port- Prez Task Force Fingered”.

The story claimed it had authoritative information that the Presidential Task Force had made it their practice to ensure that importers go through hell before clearing their goods. “The story went on to accuse members of the Presidential Task Force of collecting GH¢400 from importers for each car from the port.

The SOU wishes to state without equivocation that the allegations are spurious, without foundation and entirely fabricated. As a matter of fact, the Presidential Task Force has never operated from Tema Port.

We therefore challenge the newspaper to present whatever evidence it claims to have to the whole world, and also to report the so-called extortion to the law enforcement agencies for appropriate action to be taken against the individuals involved.

We want the sponsor of such stories that planted in the media to know that no amount of intimidation and lies against the SOU, initiated by criminal gangs, will bring the unit to its knees.

We are determined to support the President to help him achieve the objective of closing the revenue leakages at Tema and other revenue collection points, so that revenue currently going into private pocket can be used for the benefit of all Ghanaians.

We count on the support of all patriotic Ghanaians.

Chairman