Report from the Ghana Revenue Authority indicates that efforts are being taken to retrieve all unpaid personal income taxes from Nana Kwame Bediako, an aspiring presidential candidate.
Nana Kwame Bediako, alias Cheddar, is facing a major public integrity test over allegations of dodging taxes for years. According to sources at the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Cheddar has failed to file income tax returns since 2013.
Between 2013 and 2016, he paid a penalty of GHS 50,000 for not filing returns. Although he paid a total of GHS 209,171 in personal income tax between 2018 and 2020, he neglected to file again in 2021 and 2022. For the period spanning 2021 – 2022, GRA served him an estimated assessment of GHS2, 088,228 and GHS5, 096,536 and a penalty for failing to file his personal income tax returns respectively
His persistent tax evasion tactics raise questions over whether he is trying to hide unconventional sources of income and deliberately refusing to contribute to the development of the country he is seeking to lead in 2025, either of which is uncharacteristic of a presidential aspirant. Income tax declarations are crucial for transparency purposes and uncovering potential shady or questionable financial dealings, including money laundering, fraud, and asset purchases, according to a source who spoke on condition of anonymity. The revelation from GRA makes non-compliance even more concerning.
This scandal goes beyond Cheddar’s negligence of civic duty; it is about his contribution to crippling vital public services, impediments to infrastructure development, and poverty entrenchment among Ghanaians. This behaviour, in addition to the glaring display of his flashy lifestyle, and flaunting luxury cars, contravenes his commitment to good governance. Ghanaians deserve leaders who priorities the nation’s well-being, not personal gain.
Background
Nana Kwame Bediako, also known as Cheddar or Freedom Jacob Caesar, declared his intention to contest the 2024 general elections at a press conference after failing to host a mammoth rally disguised as an African concert. Since then, he has embarked on a media tour, articulating his vision for the country and portraying himself as the savior of Ghana. Among his numerous talking points are his commitment to good governance and development, his aversion to poverty, and his promise to rescue Ghana and Africa from their declining fortunes. While he has yet to align himself with a specific political ideology, demonstrate gravitas over prevailing socio-economic and political developments, or outline a detailed strategy to achieve his vision, Bediako is confident that his message already resonates with the Ghanaian populace. Meanwhile, his source of income has come under the scrutiny of Ghanaians, raising questions about the transparency and legitimacy of the financial backing behind his ambitious political aspirations.
