A civil society group known as the Concerned Citizens of Ghana has issued a notice to picket the offices of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) on January 15, 2024.
The protest is centered on the leadership of the Commissioner-General, Rev. Dr. Ammishaddai Owusu-Amoah, and the Commissioner for the Support Services Division, Ms. Julie Essiam. The group alleges that both officials have surpassed the mandatory retirement age of 60 for public officers and are currently serving without valid legal justification.
Charles Akowuah, the group’s spokesperson, stated that their investigations show the two officials had their contracts previously extended until 2021, but have continued to remain in their roles well beyond that period.
He argued that this overstay violates established constitutional and civil service policies regarding retirement. The group maintains that the continued tenure of these leaders blocks opportunities for younger professionals and undermines institutional integrity.
Organizers are mobilizing approximately 1,500 young Ghanaians to participate in the demonstration at the GRA premises. The planned action is intended to force the officials to vacate their positions and to demand stricter adherence to the country’s public service retirement laws.
The group has indicated that they will continue their pressure until the relevant authorities address the leadership transition at the tax agency.