'Ato didn’t force' - Minority blasts government over ‘midnight fuel tax robbery’

The Minority in Parliament has accused the Akufo-Addo-led government of a “backdoor tax robbery.” This accusation follows the passage of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

The bill introduces a GH¢1 levy on every litre of petroleum product. It was passed on June 3 under a “certificate of urgency.” The Minority claims this happened while Ghanaians were unaware.

At a press conference on June 5, Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh spoke out. He warned that this move betrays public trust and worsens economic hardship for citizens.

The Minority described the new levy as “callous, insensitive, and a predatory tax hike.” They dismissed claims that Finance Minister Dr. Mohammed Amin Adam was coerced into supporting the bill.

They referenced social media criticism about the Minister’s nickname, saying: “Ato Didn’t Force” reflects the government's approach. They believe it imposes hardship without caring for the people.

“This is not a minor inconvenience,” they stated. It’s a significant blow to household budgets and businesses nationwide. They estimate this tax will drain GH¢475 million from Ghanaians each month. That totals GH¢5.7 billion annually with no transparency or accountability on fund usage.

The Minority accused the government of hypocrisy and deceit. They recalled the Finance Minister's January promise that tariffs would not raise revenue or reward ECG’s inefficiencies.

According to them, that promise has been broken. They questioned what steps have been taken to fix ECG’s wastefulness, stating there have been none.

They also criticized the government's justification for the new levy based on falling fuel prices. “This reasoning is simplistic and misleading,” they said.

They warned about potential inflation and rising living costs due to this levy. Fuel impacts every sector—transportation, food, and manufacturing—affecting everyone from drivers to market women.

Meanwhile, government appointees continue to enjoy free fuel benefits. The Minority asked why these perks haven’t been canceled if everyone is affected by this situation.

They accused the government of staging a betrayal against citizens. Just weeks ago, the Transport Minister urged drivers to reduce fares by 15%. Now they face a tax hike alongside recent increases in electricity and water bills.

The Minority vowed to resist further actions like this one. “We will not stand by while Ghanaians are robbed in the dead of night,” they declared.

They plan to join forces with citizens and protest until this tax is withdrawn or reduced.

In conclusion, they sharply rebuked the government's handling of energy issues and lack of fairness and accountability.

“This isn’t just about one cedi; it’s about justice and trust,” they emphasized. Right now, people are not just angry—they are awake.