Dumsor Levy: Minority Caucus demands full disclosure on GH¢5.7bn Energy Tax windfall

The Minority in Parliament is demanding transparency from the government. This follows the passage of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

At a press conference on June 5, Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh criticized the GH¢1 levy on petroleum products. He called it a “predatory tax” that could generate GH¢5.7 billion annually. The Minority claims there is no clear plan for this money.

“This is not a minor inconvenience,” they stated. “It’s a significant blow to households and businesses.”

They emphasized that fuel is essential across all sectors. The tax will worsen inflation and reduce Ghanaians' purchasing power.

The Minority estimates the levy will take GH¢475 million from the public monthly. They also noted there is “no transparency, no disbursement plan, no timelines.”

“What are the timelines for collecting and using these funds?” they asked. They criticized the bill for lacking guidance on its use, calling it unacceptable.

The Minority accused the government of betrayal and hypocrisy. They said this move contradicts earlier promises made by the Finance Minister.

“In January, he stated tariffs would not raise revenue,” they pointed out. “This levy reverses that commitment.”

They questioned what steps have been taken to reform the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). “What has been done about ECG’s inefficiencies?” they asked.

The Caucus rejected claims that falling fuel prices can absorb this new tax. “Fuel prices are volatile and can rise unexpectedly,” they warned.

They described this tax as part of a pattern of broken promises. The Transport Minister had convinced drivers to lower fares but then introduced this fuel levy.

Recent increases in electricity and water tariffs add to their concerns—14% and 3%, respectively. The Minority believes this shows a lack of empathy from the government.

While unpopular taxes like the e-levy were scrapped, they argue new taxes have replaced them in disguise. “This backdoor tax reintroduces those burdens,” they claimed.

The statement also criticized how quickly the Majority passed the bill in Parliament. “This bill was rushed through while Ghanaians were unaware,” they said, calling it a midnight robbery.

They expressed frustration over government perks remaining intact despite these changes. “Why isn’t free fuel for appointees being canceled?” they asked.

According to them, public anger is reflected in slogans like "Ato Didn’t Force." This captures how people feel about imposed hardships without consideration for their struggles.

The Minority demands an immediate withdrawal or reduction of the levy. They plan to join civil society groups in protests against it.

“We urge all Ghanaians to oppose this unjust tax,” they declared. “This issue goes beyond just one cedi; it affects our nation’s future.”