The path has been cleared for Anthony Kwasi Sarpong to continue acting as Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) following the withdrawal of a lawsuit challenging his appointment.
The case, filed by private citizen Emmanuella Sarfowaah, sought to overturn President John Dramani Mahama’s decision to appoint Mr. Sarpong, citing alleged conflicts of interest.
However, legal documents filed at the High Court, confirm that the suit has been wholly discontinued, paving the way for the Commissioner-General to focus on executing his mandate.
Mr. Sarpong was appointed by President John Dramani Mahama on January 21, 2025. His vast experience as a Chartered Accountant and tax expert made him an ideal candidate to lead Ghana’s tax administration, but concerns were raised over his long-standing ties to KPMG, where he served as a Senior Partner.
The plaintiff had argued that his previous role created a conflict of interest, particularly because KPMG has had consulting engagements with the GRA.
However, Mr. Sarpong’s official resignation from KPMG, announced on January 31, 2025 appears to have dealt a blow to the lawsuit, weakening its foundation and prompting its eventual withdrawal. Legal analysts suggest that his resignation eliminated any potential conflict, leaving little room for a meritorious challenge against his appointment.
The GRA staff welcomed the new Acting Commissioner-General upon his appointment by President Mahama and expressed confidence in his ability to revamp the institution and enhance revenue mobilisation. Insiders at the authority say morale is high, as employees see his leadership as an opportunity for modernization and transformation.
Mr. Sarpong is now set to usher GRA into its next phase of revenue generation, aligning with the government’s broader economic strategy.
His leadership is expected to focus on enhancing tax compliance, leveraging technology for efficiency, and strengthening enforcement measures to maximize revenue collection.
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