Source:tolonradio.com/Baba Issahaq Mohammed
The government of Ghana, through the Attorney General, has been sued by a private citizen, Mr Emmanuellar Sarfowaah, over the appointment of the Acting Commissioner-General of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA). The lawsuit challenges the legality of the appointment, citing concerns over conflict of interest and procedural violations.
According to the statement of claim filed at the Collins Danso Law Chambers in Accra, Mr. Emmanuellar argues that the appointment, made by the President on January 21, 2025, is unlawful. He contends that the President’s decision to appoint the 1st Defendant, a senior partner at KPMG Ghana, violates Ghana’s conflict-of-interest laws. The lawsuit points out that KPMG has had fee-paying contractual relationships with the GRA, potentially creating a conflict of interest.
Additionally, the lawsuit highlights procedural irregularities, stating that the GRA Governing Council, which is required to advise on such appointments, was not in place at the time. Plaintiff further claims that appointing an individual with ties to a private audit firm that has done business with the GRA undermines public trust and transparency in tax administration.
The reliefs sought in the suit include:
A declaration that the appointment is unlawful due to a conflict of interest.
An order revoking the appointment of the 1st Defendant.
A perpetual injunction restraining the President from appointing the 1st Defendant to the role.
A similar injunction prevented the future GRA Governing Council from recommending the appointment.
The case is expected to draw significant attention as it raises critical questions about governance, transparency, and accountability in public sector appointments. Neither the government nor the defendants have publicly responded to the lawsuit.
