Parrot Mouth is a popular stand-up comedian
Ghanaian-based Nigerian stand-up comedian Parrot Mouth has raised concerns about what he describes as the unfair treatment of comedians and other creatives by the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).
Speaking during a roundtable discussion hosted by Joy Entertainment, he recounted how comedians often struggle to make ends meet after organising shows, yet are compelled to pay taxes even when events do not generate profit.
“We don’t have houses, cars, or even places to sleep. We just gather people to make them laugh for a few hours, then tax collectors come and stand at the gate and demand taxes,” he said.
According to him, the GRA insists on taxing all tickets, including those given out for free, leaving some comedians unable to cover basic expenses such as transport home after shows.
Parrot Mouth recounted a recent event where a colleague had to be supported with contributions from fellow comedians just to get home after paying GRA officials.
“After all that, the guy didn’t even have any transport fare to go home. We had to contribute money for him,” he recalled.
In a hilarious moment, Parrot Mouth questioned whether the GRA could consider providing upfront support to the creatives to organise events, which could later be recouped through tax payments once the shows make money.
“Is it possible that the GRA can give us money to organise our events? So that when we get the money, we will give you back your money and pay your tax,” he asked.
Parrot Mouth’s comments come following several concerns raised by other practitioners in the comedy space, many of whom have lamented the harsh tax regimes and called for more favourable measures.
ID/EB
Also catch the latest episode of Talkertainment with Ghana’s most-sought-after MC/Hypeman, Kojo Manuel, below:
