2024 polls: Bawumia promises churches incentives instead of taxes

Bawumia promises churches incentives

As the leader of the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP), Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, has revealed that his administration will offer incentives to Ghanaian churches in recognition of their role in the country’s progress.

He claimed that these kinds of rewards will motivate the churches to start large-scale construction projects.

Dr. Bawumia contended that rather than having the government impose taxes on churches, the churches should pay for their services.

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According to him, religious institutions are in a better position to collaborate with the state to spearhead national growth.

The NPP leader said these things while on his “Bold Solution for Our Future” national campaign trip, speaking to the clergy in the Bono East area.

He insisted that churches are in a better position to work with the government to advance national development.

It’s imperative to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of churches in sustaining the fabric of our society. Overlooking the tireless efforts invested by these institutions risks undermining the very foundations upon which our communities thrive.

Among the myriad of societal pillars erected by churches, one cannot overlook the monumental significance of institutions like hospitals, universities, and schools.

These entities serve as bedrocks of education, healthcare, and social welfare, catering to the diverse needs of individuals across all walks of life.

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The enormity of the church’s impact becomes palpable when one considers the sheer scale of their educational endeavors.

Across the globe, hundreds of schools, fostered under the auspices of various denominations, stand as bastions of knowledge and enlightenment.

These educational institutions not only impart academic excellence but also instill moral values and foster a sense of community cohesion.

They serve as crucibles where young minds are nurtured, equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern world.In light of these profound contributions, the notion of subjecting churches to taxation appears not only misguided but also perilous.

Taxing churches risks jeopardizing their ability to continue providing vital services to the communities they serve. The financial burden imposed by taxation could lead to the closure of essential facilities, depriving countless individuals of access to education, healthcare, and other critical services.

Furthermore, taxation could erode the autonomy and independence of churches, compromising their ability to fulfill their spiritual and humanitarian missions.

Freed from the burden of taxation, churches can allocate resources more efficiently towards charitable endeavors, poverty alleviation programs, and community outreach initiatives.

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By exempting churches from taxation, society reaffirms its recognition of the invaluable role these institutions play in fostering social cohesion, promoting ethical values, and advancing the common good.In essence, the debate surrounding the taxation of churches underscores the need for a nuanced understanding of their multifaceted contributions to society.

Rather than viewing churches solely through the lens of economic entities, we must recognize their broader societal impact and the invaluable services they provide. Upholding the tax-exempt status of churches is not merely a matter of fiscal policy but a reaffirmation of our commitment to nurturing vibrant, compassionate, and inclusive communities.

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Prince Nti Adu

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