As difficult as it is, dumsor levy is a necessary evil – Kwame Jantuah

Kwame Jantuah, a private legal practitioner and energy expert, spoke about the dumsor levy. He called it a "necessary evil," despite its difficulties.

Jantuah believes Ghanaians should have received more explanations before the one Cedi announcement. He stated that if everyone shares the energy sector debt, government appointees should also contribute to the fuel levy.

He noted that these appointees do not feel the same pressure as ordinary Ghanaians. This is because they receive free fuel coupons.

On TV3's Key Points on June 7, he discussed Ghana's debt situation. He asked how people would handle debt in their own businesses. He suggested selling assets to pay off debts.

Jantuah expressed concern over transparency regarding the Energy Sector Levy. He expected detailed explanations from the Finance Minister about ESLA and its implications.

He questioned how long this levy would last and demanded clarity on its usage. Jantuah emphasized that all parties share responsibility for creating this debt.

In response, John Abdulai Jinapor, Minister of Energy and Green Transition, clarified the purpose of the new levy. He stated it is not meant for legacy debts but to cover liquid fuel costs.

Jinapor explained that liquid fuel costs are not included in electricity tariffs. This exclusion creates financing challenges for the government.