Ghanaians have expressed mixed reactions to a proposal by the Constitutional Review Consultative Committee (CRCC) recommending that Presidents of Ghana should pay taxes on their salaries and emoluments.

The proposal, according to the CRCC, is intended to set a strong example for citizens, reinforce the principle of equality before the law, and uphold the rule of law by ensuring that no public office holder is exempt from basic civic obligations.

Public responses to the recommendation have been divided. Supporters argue that taxing the President would boost public confidence in the tax system and encourage voluntary compliance among citizens.

Mr Desmond Oti, a worker who supports the proposal, described it as a positive step that should be extended to ministers of state and Members of Parliament. He noted that senior government officials make far-reaching decisions that affect ordinary citizens and should therefore experience the same financial obligations as the people they govern.

“They take decisions that affect our daily lives, so it is only fair that they feel the same financial pressures the rest of us face,” he said.

Ms Rachel Owusu, a graduate student at the University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC–IJ), also welcomed the proposal, saying the President, as a salaried public servant, should be subject to the same tax rules as other workers.

“The President is paid from public funds like any other worker, so he should pay taxes. No one should be above the law,” she said, adding that such a move would strengthen public trust in governance.

Mrs Abigail Darley Bortey, a trader, shared similar views, noting that many people in the informal sector perceive the President’s tax exemption as unfair, particularly when market women and small business operators are required to pay taxes regularly.

“If the President pays taxes, it sends a message that he is a citizen like everyone else. That will encourage people to comply because they know the law applies to all,” she explained.

However, others have opposed the proposal, arguing that the presidency is a unique office that should retain certain privileges. Mr Samuel Addo maintained that the demands and sacrifices associated with the role justify exemptions such as a tax-free salary.

“The President sacrifices his private life and works around the clock for the nation. A tax-free salary is a small way to recognise the heavy responsibilities of the office and preserve its dignity,” he said.

The debate reflects broader national discussions on governance, accountability, and fairness as constitutional reforms continue to be considered.