By Grace Zigah
The Ministry of the Interior has clarified that it is not responsible for the reported 20% tax deduction on rent allowances of security services personnel, following growing concern and frustration among officers.
In a statement issued on April 11, the Ministry said it had taken note of widespread reports suggesting it had effected the deductions, but firmly denied any involvement. It stressed that it does not have the mandate to impose or deduct taxes on allowances paid to personnel within the security services.
“The Ministry wishes to clarify that it does not have the mandate to deduct tax from the rent allowance of security services personnel,” the statement noted.
According to the Ministry, the deductions were made at source by the Ministry of Finance in accordance with existing tax laws. It explained that such processes fall under the legal and administrative jurisdiction of the Finance Ministry, not the Interior Ministry.
The clarification comes amid mounting concerns from affected personnel, many of whom say the deduction is placing additional strain on their finances.
The issue has sparked conversations within the ranks about welfare and the cost of living.
The Ministry, however, assured personnel that government remains committed to their well-being and will not take decisions that undermine their welfare.
Despite the clarification, concerns persist among security officers, with calls for further engagement and transparency regarding the policy and its impact.
