Finance Ministry grants tax exemption for Hon. Sam George’s Lexus

The Ministry of Finance has granted Hon. Samuel Nartey George an exemption from import taxes. He is the Member of Parliament for Ningo-Prampram. This exemption allows him to clear a luxury Lexus LX600 vehicle.

The decision was communicated in a letter dated January 3, 2025. The letter was signed by Hon. Abena Osei-Asare, the Minister of State at the Finance Ministry.

This exemption is based on Parliamentary Resolution No. PS/CS/80/178, passed on July 15, 2021. It allows Hon. Sam George to avoid paying various taxes and levies on the vehicle.

These include Import Duties, VAT, GETFund Levy, and others. The arrangement is supported by Article 174(2) of Ghana’s Constitution.

According to the document, the total duty on the vehicle exceeds GHS 626,000. However, due to allowable thresholds, he will only pay GHS 2,150.

The document also states that any future sale or transfer will incur necessary taxes and duties. The Ministry approved this after receiving supporting documents from Hon. Sam George.

These included a tax clearance certificate and a recommendation from the Parliamentary Service.

While such exemptions are common for MPs, this case may spark public debate. It raises questions about public officials' privileges and equity in taxation during Ghana's economic recovery efforts.