Accra: The Traders Advocacy Group Ghana (TAGG), along with members of the trading and importing community, has raised concerns regarding the contractual arrangements between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and TRUEDARE Investment Limited. The group is advocating for greater transparency, accountability, and stakeholder engagement in the process.
According to Ghana Web, TAGG criticized the GRA in a statement for seeking parliamentary approval for the contracts without consulting key stakeholders. These stakeholders, particularly traders and importers, are directly affected by the agreement. TAGG argues that the lack of engagement undermines transparency, inclusiveness, and good faith in public procurement and policy implementation.
The statement, signed by TAGG President David Kwadwo Amoateng, Vice President Samuel Asare Addo, Treasurer Irene Victoria Odoow, and General Secretary Nana Poku, revealed that following public concern, an appeal was made to the Presidency. This reportedly led to a directive for the GRA to review the contract to ensure transparency and accountability. However, TAGG noted that the GRA has yet to formally communicate the outcome of any such review to stakeholders.
TAGG also reported that instead of addressing broader concerns related to fairness, due process, and stakeholder inclusion, the GRA organized a forum focused largely on the economic benefits and valuation accuracy of customs Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems.
The group questioned the qualifications and capacity of TRUEDARE Investment Limited, highlighting that the company is primarily known as a trading entity without an established track record in managing AI-driven customs systems. This has led to skepticism among traders and importers about the company's competence and experience.
TAGG expressed further concern that capable and experienced local technology firms might have been sidelined in the contracting process, raising issues about value-for-money, fairness, and competence. The group warned that these unresolved issues have increased dissatisfaction and unrest within the trading community.
In pursuit of transparency, TAGG announced it has submitted a formal application to the Right to Information (RTI) Commission, requesting full disclosure of the contract details. The group believes this will allow for an independent assessment of whether the agreement aligns with its stated scope of work and complies with principles of fair competition.
TAGG emphasized that the move was taken in good faith to protect the legitimate interests of traders and importers, promote transparency, and ensure a stable and peaceful business environment. The group reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement with government institutions in the national interest.