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Public lands must not be sold at cheaper prices – Armah-Kofi Buah
Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, the Minister-Designate for Lands and Natural Resources, has firmly opposed the sale of public lands, emphasising that any future transactions involving such lands must be conducted at prevailing market rates to protect the interests of the Ghanaian people.
During his vetting by Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Monday, January 27, Armah-Kofi Buah criticised existing practices that allow public lands to be undervalued and sold at significantly lower rates, describing this as detrimental to national development.
Armah-Kofi Buah outlined the guidelines currently in use by the Lands Commission, explaining that public lands are often sold at just 25 percent of their market value, with the remainder paid through ground rent.
This practice, Armah-Kofi Buah argued, effectively undervalues state-owned assets and deprives the nation of much-needed revenue.
He said,“As we speak, the guidelines for the sale of public lands according to the Lands Commission is that it is valued at 25 percent and the 25 percent of the value is what is sold and the rest is paid through grand rent.”
“That will not happen anymore, and first of all, it should not be sold and if there is a need to sell, it should be done at the current market value so that Ghanaians are not shortchanged,” he revealed.
The sale of public lands to Politically Exposed Persons (PEPs) has been a contentious issue in Ghana, with concerns raised about transparency, fairness, and accountability.
Over the years, there have been reports of influential individuals, including politicians, government officials, and their associates, acquiring prime public lands at heavily discounted prices.
Critics argue that these transactions often lack transparency, with limited public oversight or competitive bidding processes.
In some cases, prime lands located in urban centres have been sold to PEPs at prices far below their market value, depriving the state of significant revenue and raising questions about favouritism and abuse of office.
Source: Citinewsroom.com
Ghana’s Finance Minister, Cassiel Ato Forson, says he and his deputy have publicly filed their annual tax returns to demonstrate leadership and encourage compliance among citizens.
In a facebook post, he explained that the move was meant to show that public officials must lead by example when it comes to fulfilling civic duties.
“Leadership must be demonstrated, not declared,” he said.
He commended Ghanaian taxpayers for their continued contribution to national development, noting that tax compliance plays a key role in sustaining government activities.
According to him, paying taxes is both a legal and moral responsibility. He stressed that all citizens, including public officials, professionals, and businesses, are equal before the law and must meet their tax obligations.
He added that tax revenue is essential for funding key sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security.
The minister praised the Ghana Revenue Authority for its work, especially during the ongoing Tax and Good Governance Month in April. He said the initiative helps to educate the public and promote voluntary compliance.
He urged the authority to intensify public education and continue reforms aimed at simplifying tax processes, reducing compliance costs, and improving transparency.
He further encouraged individuals and businesses that are yet to file their returns to do so promptly, adding that support systems and digital platforms are available to assist them.
He said building a strong tax culture would strengthen the country’s economy, improve accountability, and promote fairness in society.
By: Jacob Aggrey
The National Association of Match Commissioners (GNAMCO) has successfully held its 2nd Quadrennial Delegates Congress on 18th April 2026, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.
During the congress, elections were conducted, resulting in the retention of all incumbent executive members for another four-year term.
The re-elected leaders include Paul Ayamba as National Chairman, Clement Walter Okai as First National Vice Chairman, John Yakubu as Second National Vice-Chairman, Michael Ntow Ayeh as National Secretary, Felix Adjetey Sowah as Assistant National Secretary, Egbert M. A. Laryea as National Treasurer, Mike Komla Amedior as National Trainer, and William Lantey Quaye as National Deputy Trainer.
GNAMCO pledged unwavering support and cooperation to advance football development in Ghana, with a focus on professionalism, integrity, and excellence.
