Features
A chevy of a levy
Chevrolet, (pronounced sher-vro-lay), is an American car from the stable of General Motors, (GM). Its short form is Chevy, (pronounced sher-vy). Interestingly, both its full name and short form are real words in Spanish and English respectively, with some fascinating connotations. According to the online Word Magic English-Spanish Dictionary, Chevrolet in Spanish means persecution. In English, the short form, chevy, means persecution as well, with synonyms such as torment, irritation, annoyance, nag, badger, heat, pursuit, chase, or harass.
Sometimes, it is spelt chivvy which means to obtain by small manoeuvres. Another meaning attributed to the word is confusion. It is also listed as a crossword-clue for an act of pursuing with an effort to overtake or capture. In short, it implies going after with the intent to catch.
Whatever meaning is adopted for the full form or the shorter version of the word, one thing is certain. It has elements of a pursuit, irritation, and confusion in it. The Electronic Transaction Levy (commonly known as Electronic Levy or E-Levy) proposed by the Government of Ghana seems to be one chevy of a levy, what, with all the confusion surrounding it and the schemes to push it down the throats of Ghanaians? Its discussion has even led to a nasty brawl in parliament. Now, you understand why I call it a chevy of a levy. It has already led to irritation, chaos, and disagreements.
The levy, pegged at 1.75 per cent on all electronic transactions in the informal sector, was proposed on November 17, 2021, by the Minister of Finance, Mr. Ken Ofori-Atta during the presentation of the 2022 budget. Transactions above GH¢100.00 will be affected and areas to be captured under the levy include the following:
- All inward remittances (which would be paid by the recipient)
- All person-to-person mobile transactions (which includes sending of funds to another account, payment for goods and services, payment of utilities
- All POS/Merchant payments.(POS means Point of Sale), that is, the place where a transaction takes place. It may be virtual or real.
The minister said the policy would not only widen the tax net but could generate about $1.15 billion to be used for the payment of contractors in Ghana. Besides, revenue from the levy would provide funds to support entrepreneurship, cyber and digital security; road infrastructure and job creation for about 11 million people in the country, as well as help reduce borrowing and the national debt.
He justified the introduction of the levy with the explanation that the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the use of digital platforms for transactions. That rationalisation is tantamount to turning the already impoverished masses into easy prey to make a quick buck.
The Government should be told in no uncertain terms that you cannot eat your cake and have it. Were we not told that Ghana was gearing towards a cashless economy, and that digitisation was the tool to achieve that? Why then should there be a tax on digitisation improvement? This ambivalence could be suicidal, defeatist, and counter-productive.
Truth be told, no nation can develop without relying on some form of taxation. Economic experts stress that Africa’s development is stifled by certain critical deficits which, if not addressed, would continue to impede the continent’s advancement. They include low access to healthcare together with poor service, high illiteracy rate as well as poor quality of education and inadequate energy supply to fuel industrialisation, add value to primary products, boost exports and reduce imports.
Without doubt, education remains the backbone of sustainable development. That is why the introduction of the Free Senior High School by the Government must be lauded. Though fraught with a lot of difficulties, it is a step in the right direction. It only needs fine-tuning which must be done with consultation, not unilaterally. With time, the benefits will be self-evident through the skills acquired and increased productivity among other things.
Not much can be said for the energy sector. For a country with so much promise in the immediate post-independence era even without oil, we still lag behind big time as far as our energy generation is concerned. Some efforts have been made to reduce the deficit, but major investments must be made in alternative sources like solar and wind to address the shortfall and help meet the country’s sustainable development goals.
Another vital area of concern that the experts blame for the continent’s lack of development is the deficit in domestic revenue mobilisation which has long starved Africa of vital funds needed to sponsor spending and various public expenditures at various levels of development – national, regional, and district.
It takes taxation to meet those goals. But when individuals and corporate entities transfer their wealth to the government this way, they do so with the understanding that the money will be used in the most judicious manner to improve the general well-being of the people.
In fact, the inflows we receive from the advanced countries in the form of aid, loans and foreign direct investments are made possible through taxation. Their tax to GDP ratio is way higher than Africa in general and Ghana in particular. The tax to GDP ratio is the contribution of taxes to the country’s total monetary or market value of its finished products and services within a year
It is agreed that at around 12 per cent, Ghana’s tax to GDP ratio is lower than the 16.5 per cent average for Sub-Saharan Africa recommended as the minimum threshold for a fairly healthy economy. Available records indicate that as of August 2021, only 2.4 million, (13.3per cent) out ofabout 18 million potential income taxpayers, were registered as personal income taxpayers.
Meanwhile, only 45,109 entities are reported to be registered as corporate taxpayers while 54,364 persons are registered as self-employed taxpayers at the Ghana Revenue Authority. On the other hand, there are about 17 million registered voters and about 19 million active mobile money accounts. That obviously makes Ghana’s economy a very informal one and that does not conduce to effective mobilisation of personal income tax through the P.A.Y.E. system as pertains in developed countries. The statistics do not look good for development.
It is against this backdrop that the Government sees the E-Levy as an opportunity to make up lost ground. In the Minister’s calculation, the E-Levy, if passed as proposed, would widen the tax base in the medium term and increase the country’s tax to Gross Domestic Ratio (GDP) to 16.5 per cent and subsequently to 20 per cent, “as pertains among our peers.”
Very lofty and laudable ideas if you asked me! But for Ghana, and most African countries, the problem is not so much the lack of resources as our own doing. Mismanagement, corruption, misplaced priorities, insensitivity to the plight of the masses and a host of other self-imposed burdens have conspired to put the gear of progress in reverse.
The Akans have a proverb that: “3mmoa a, omo kՉՉ adidie mmae a, y3nnka bi nnkՉgu mu.” That translates loosely to: “It is unwise to send more cattle out for grazing if the previous herd has not returned home.”
For a start, the levy should be pegged at one per cent given the fairly large size of the cohort of the population projected to be targeted. Besides, we must be meticulously prudent in managing the money and have verifiable evidence of the proper allocation of resources earmarked for the various sectors of our development plan. The advanced countries do it so well that they can squeeze a substantial chunk for us and still manage their health services, education, energy, infrastructure, and housing very well.
Not so in our part of the world where we can collect road tolls for decades yet cannot show concretely how roads benefitted from such tolls. Now, we are told that the toll has been scrapped but only God knows how it will resurrect in one form or another.
In recent times, how many new taxes have been introduced or are to be introduced? I mean the VAT FLAT RATE SCHEME,(VFRS), introduced for retailers and wholesalers at three per cent; VAT withholding, COVID-19 Health Levy adding one percentage point to both VFRS and NHIL, and others? Some have been scrapped but it is like “robbing Peter to pay Paul”.
Ghana needs the money to fast-track its economic transformation. But for this to happen, people have to be healthy, trained to acquire skills, live in decent housing, have access to affordable means of transportation as well as get credit. These are the things that developed countries ensure for their people through the taxes they collect. And these are integral to any development agenda planned for Ghana.
Contact: teepeejubilee@yahoo.co.uk
By Tony Prempeh
Features
The Prophet part 9
Antubam followed her. She indicated for him to sit down. She was about to call Mary when she emerged from the hall, followed by Suzzie.
“It’s good you are both here,” she said. “There’s something I need to tell all three of you. Mr Antubam, I will not waste time on your so-called interest in me, because you and I are two very different people with absolutely nothing in common. The main point I want to make now is that your so-called church is nothing but a fraud with which you are deceiving people who may be ignorant today, but are still precious in God’s sight.
Apart from deceiving them and enriching yourself, you are using God’s name to commit fraud. Today you may be enjoying money, food, alcohol and women, but you will certainly pay a high price for it, unless of course you are willing to repent now. My concern is for my two sisters.
I am demanding that they cut all links with you, now. No visits to your home or church, and no telephone calls. I have told them to give you back every penny you have given them. I am prepared to find money to pay whatever they owe you. That is all I have to say.”
Antubam rose, furious, and pointed his finger at her.
“Let me warn you, Betty. Yes, I am interested in you, and I am ready to take care of all your needs, even to rent a house and buy a car for you. But I will not allow you to insult me. You better withdraw those words you have used against me now, or I will deal with you very soon.”
“Don’t make me laugh, Antubam. You? Deal with me? Why don’t you deal with me now? You have to wait till you go to the shrine and beg the fetish priest to deal with me? See how miserable you are? I dare you! Leave my house now, and go to that miserable fetish priest and get him to rain down all his powers on me!”
“You will see!” Antubam declared as he moved towards his car. He hesitated for a moment to see if Mary and Suzzie would walk him to the car, but noticing that they were firmly glued to their seats he got in the car and drove home.
He got out of the car and went straight to the drinks cupboard, poured himself a full glass of whisky and gulped down half of it. He sat down and called his batman, Kofi Takyi.
“Which two women did you call today?”
“Aggie, one of the new members is in. She is having supper in the guest room. Priscilla will be coming around 9pm.”
“Good work, Kofi. Now, get me my food.” After wolfing down the fufu and light soup, he gulped down the other half of the whisky and stretched out on the sofa and began a smooth, rhythmic snore. Priscilla entered, walked over and, shaking her head, strolled to the bedroom.
Betty came from the shower to find the two friends still glued to their seats.
“Well? Aren’t you two going to say anything?”
“I have something to say,” Mary said. “I don’t understand you, Betty. You want us to cut all links with Antubam, and to refund all the money he has given us. Now, when we do that, do we come back here tomorrow, sit and stare at the sky and hope and pray that our holy sister (Betty) will bring us manna to eat?”
“Such a stupid statement must not come from you, Mary. What happened to your WASSCE qualifications and your intelligence? Here’s some free advice. Get on the internet. Submit applications for university admission. I am prepared to pay for the two of you. And from tomorrow, start studying the Bible seriously, with the intention of doing what it says. I assure you, there are solutions in the Bible for every problem you face today, and will face tomorrow. All you need, Mary, is to use your God-given intelligence. How could you stoop so low as to take money from a common thief and drunkard like Antubam?”
Suzzie rose quietly and held Betty’s hand. “Do you know, Betty? Until a few minutes ago I did not know that you cared so much about me that you consider me your sister. I promise you. We will do as you say. Mary, we will go and collect the rent money, add it to all the money we have taken, and pay it into the account. From tomorrow, Betty, Mary and I will follow you wherever you go’. With tears streaming down her cheeks she walked away.”
Antubam got up with a start. He checked the time on his phone. It was midnight. He sat up, and was moving towards the bedroom when he heard the voices.
“Is anything the matter?” he said. “You have never come here at this time. I thought you only come at dawn.”
“We are always here. We only contact you when we have to. We have to warn you. That girl is trouble. If you don’t leave her alone there will be problems.”
“I don’t understand. I can’t leave her alone. I must sleep with her as many times as possible, conquer her. Why can’t you get her for me?”
“She is firmly buried in the book. You are sleeping with two women every night, and there are many more available in the church. Leave that girl alone?”
“Do you fear her? What book is that? I don’t know why…..” before he could finish the sentence several flashes of pain like a horsewhip on fire cut across his back, and he yelled, bringing Priscilla and Aggie from their rooms.
“What is it, Antubam?” Priscilla asked.
“Er…er. I saw a revelation about a church member who is in some trouble. I need to pray for her. Please go back to the rooms. I will join you soon.” Aggie went to the room, but Priscilla lingered.
“Antubam, why don’t you tell me what the problem is so that I can help you? It appears you have just received some spiritual lashes. Are you being punished for something you have done?”
“Perhaps your husband is punishing me for sleeping with you.”
“Do you dare insult me, Antubam. You will certainly regret speaking to me like this?”
“You have a loud mouth, but your only abilities in life, Priscilla, are sex and extorting money. I will come and sleep with you shortly, and give you money in the morning. Now leave!” She slipped out quietly, and the voices resumed.
“Next time you talk like that you will receive a much bigger punishment. We are only trying to protect you. You are planning to go to the shrine tomorrow morning to invoke curses on the girl. Be careful. Our master may grant your wish if you press him, but you may regret it.”
“I am sorry if I sound ungrateful, but I just can’t resist that girl. She is so beautiful and sexy. Moreover she has insulted me, and I must punish her.”
“Remember we warned you. You are already in danger. One of your competitors is asking questions about you, and thinking about the possibility of dealing with you. Jehoshaphat Agyiri. Everyone calls him Gidigidi.”
“I have heard of him. But what have I done?”
“He belongs to us. We work for him. He wants to check if you will threaten him. He can’t do you any harm as long as you use the stick. But your main problem will come from the girl.”
“Thank you for your help. As for the girl, please talk to Nana Broni for me. I am ready to pay anything for the pleasure of catching that girl in my bed and disciplining her.”
“Antubam,” Priscilla started, “are you going to apologise for the way you spoke to me? And are you going to apologise for bringing another woman here even though I am here with you?”
“Are you going to collect money from me tomorrow morning, Priscilla?”
“Get into bed, you idiot. I wonder why those women in the church cannot see you for the cheap fraudster you really are.”
Antubam took off at dawn, and arrived at the shrine before five.
“You are welcome, Antubam. We know, yet we still ask, as the saying goes. What brings you here?”
“You already know, Okomfo. I must have the girl at all costs. I am prepared to pay anything.”
“I have already consulted Nana Ama Kokoben. I have prepared a fire for her. She will be here any minute, with her mirrors. What you are asking is beyond me, but she is willing to help you. Ah, here she is.”
The small woman sat on a stool next to Okomfo, and stared into Antubam’s eyes for several minutes.
“I will try to help you, but the effort will come from you.” They moved over to the fire, and she placed the two mirrors over the fire.”
“Look! You will see the girl. Take this needle. When she appears in the mirror, pierce her eyes with the needle. By the time you get back to Tafo she will be at your house. From today, she will follow you just as a dog follows its master.”
By Ekow de Heer
Features
Toothache: Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options
A toothache is a painful sensation in or around a tooth, which can be caused by a variety of factors.
It is a common dental emergency that can affect anyone, regardless of age or oral health.
Toothaches can range from mild to severe and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as swelling, sensitivity, and difficulty chewing.
Causes of toothache
There are several causes of toothache, including:
1. Tooth decay: Tooth decay is the most common cause of toothache. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down the enamel of the tooth, creating a cavity.
2. Gum disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, can cause toothache. It occurs when bacteria in the mouth infect the gums, causing inflammation and pain.
3. Cracked tooth: A cracked tooth can cause toothache. This can occur due to biting or chewing on something hard, or due to a blow to the mouth.
4. Dental abscess: A dental abscess is a pocket of pus that forms in the gum tissue. It can cause severe toothache and swelling.
5. Grinding or clenching: Grinding or clenching the teeth can cause toothache. This can occur due to stress, anxiety, or a misaligned bite.
6. Loose or broken filling: A loose or broken filling can cause toothache. This can occur due to wear and tear, or due to a blow to the mouth.
Symptoms of toothache
The symptoms of toothache can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:
1. Pain: A sharp, stabbing, or dull ache in the tooth or surrounding gum tissue.
2. Sensitivity: Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures, sweet or sour tastes, or pressure.
3. Swelling: Swelling of the gum tissue or face.
4. Difficulty chewing: Difficulty chewing or biting due to pain or discomfort.
5. Bad breath: Bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth.
Diagnosis of Toothache
Diagnosing toothache typically involves a combination of:
1. Visual examination: A visual examination of the tooth and surrounding gum tissue.
2. X-rays: X-rays may be taken to check for signs of tooth decay, abscesses, or other problems.
3. Percussion test: A percussion test, which involves tapping on the tooth to check for sensitivity.
Treatment options for toothache
The treatment options for toothache depend on the cause and severity of the condition. Common treatment options include:
1. Fillings: Fillings may be used to repair a tooth that has been damaged by decay or trauma.
2. Extractions: In some cases, a tooth may need to be extracted due to severe decay or damage.
3. Root canals: Root canals may be performed to remove infected pulp from the tooth.
4. Crown or bridge: A crown or bridge may be used to repair a damaged tooth or replace a missing tooth.
5. Pain relief: Pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may be prescribed to manage pain and discomfort.
Home remedies for toothache
There are several home remedies that can help to alleviate toothache, including:
1. Cold compress: Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help to reduce pain and swelling.
2. Salt water rinse: Rinsing the mouth with warm salt water can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Cloves: Applying a clove to the affected tooth can help to numb the area and reduce pain.
4. Over-the-counter pain relief: Taking over-the-counter pain relief medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to manage pain and discomfort.
Prevention of toothache
Preventing toothache involves maintaining good oral hygiene habits, including:
1. Brushing and flossing: Brushing and flossing regularly to remove plaque and bacteria from the teeth.
2. Regular dental check-ups: Regular dental check-ups can help to identify and treat oral health problems early on.
3. Avoiding sugary and acidic foods: Avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks can help to reduce the risk of tooth decay and erosion.
4. Wearing a mouth guard: Wearing a mouthguard can help to protect the teeth from injury during sports or other activities.
Conclusion
Toothache is a common dental emergency that can be caused by a variety of factors.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for toothache can help individuals to seek prompt treatment and alleviate pain and discomfort.
By maintaining good oral hygiene habits and avoiding sugary and acidic foods and drinks, individuals can reduce their risk of developing toothache.
By Robert Ekow Grimmond-Thompson
