The Ghana Charismatic Bishop’s Conference has underscored the importance of serious discussions about support for churches.
Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), clarified his earlier statement about his administration’s plans to incentivise churches to undertake more developmental projects, rather than imposing taxes on them, was made in jest.
During a meeting with the Clergy in the North East Region as part of his nationwide tour, the Vice President elaborated that his statement might have been misunderstood.
Dr Bawumia contextualised his statement, highlighting the significant contributions of the church and other faith-based institutions to the country, including the building of schools, hospitals, and other essential facilities. He expressed that these institutions deserved further support to continue their work.
The Ghana Charismatic Bishop’s Conference, in a statement issued on Thursday, May 16, asserted that support for churches and faith-based organisations should not be trivialised.
The Conference emphasised the eagerness of churches to contribute more to the country’s development and called on the government to create the necessary institutional and fiscal frameworks to unlock the potential of churches.
“Churches are eager to contribute more to Ghana’s development. The state should create the necessary institutional and fiscal frameworks to unlock this potential. This is no joking matter,” it stated.
The Conference further proposed, “We propose the creation of a charter recognizing the charitable works of churches and other faith-based organizations. Such chartered organizations should receive public recognition, privileges, and fiscal support to continue their work benefiting the Ghanaian public.”
It questioned the rationale behind churches paying import duties for wheelchairs or hospital equipment for the disadvantaged, while an ambassador’s car was exempt.
“A threshold could be established, for example, US$2 million spent on charitable works, to qualify for special recognition and support. These chartered organizations could be audited annually by reputable firms, ensuring transparency and accountability. This approach would foster the right behaviours among churches and faith-based organizations, promoting societal benefits,” the Conference added.
READ THE FULL STATEMENT FROM THE GHANA CHARISMATIC BISHOP’S CONFERENCE HERE
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