Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has stated that his comments regarding incentivizing churches were made in jest and not to be taken as a serious policy proposal.
Addressing the Clergy in the NorthEast Region during his nationwide tour, the Vice President sought to provide context to his earlier statement, suggesting that it may have been misconstrued. Dr. Bawumia emphasized the significant contributions of churches and faith-based institutions to national development, citing their role in building schools, hospitals, and other essential facilities.
“Look at the number of hospitals the churches have built. Look at the number of universities the churches have built and the faith-based organizations have built,” Dr. Bawumia remarked, underscoring the indispensable role played by religious institutions in the social fabric of the nation.
However, Dr. Bawumia clarified that his suggestion of incentivizing churches was intended as a light-hearted remark, rather than a serious policy stance. “I was joking and I said, oh…people are talking about taxing churches. I don’t believe, and we will not tax churches,” he explained, adding, “Maybe we should have actually paid them for what they did, not really trying to tax them.”
The Vice President’s remarks come in the wake of controversy surrounding his earlier statement at a meeting with the clergy in the Bono East region. During that gathering, Dr. Bawumia had vehemently opposed the notion of taxing churches, citing their extensive contributions to society, including the establishment of schools and hospitals.
“I don’t see and I will not have a situation where we are taxing churches,” Dr. Bawumia had asserted, further emphasizing the pivotal role played by religious institutions in maintaining social cohesion and providing essential services.
As Dr. Bawumia continues his campaign tour in the North East Region, his clarification seeks to address any misunderstandings stemming from his earlier remarks. With the election season in full swing, political statements and proposals are under heightened scrutiny, underscoring the importance of clarity and context in public discourse.
