Deputy Speaker Urges Citizens to Demand GST Receipts
Aaron Parker Hon. Ibrahim Tawa Conteh, Deputy Speaker of Sierra Leone’s Parliament, has urged citizens to actively request Goods and Services Tax (GST) receipts for all eligible purchases.
Speaking during the Pre-Legislative Hearing on the Finance Act FY 2025, he emphasized that this practice is essential for ensuring tax compliance and generating revenue for key public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
Hon. Conteh expressed concern over the low issuance of GST receipts by businesses and citizens’ lack of vigilance, which he said contributes to tax evasion and deprives the country of vital development funds.
He drew comparisons with developed countries, where demanding receipts is standard practice, and called on Sierra Leoneans to adopt a similar approach to foster transparency and accountability.
He also urged the National Revenue Authority (NRA) to strengthen enforcement measures and educate the public on the importance of tax compliance.
As discussions on the Finance Act FY 2025 continue, the Deputy Speaker’s message highlights the critical role citizens play in supporting national development through collective action.