Dumsor Levy: We won’t allow you to gaslight Ghanaians – Miracles Aboagye to Mahama government

Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aide to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, criticized the Mahama administration. He spoke about the new Dumsor levy on JoyNews' Newsfile on Saturday, June 7.

Aboagye called the levy a betrayal of public trust. He described the current government as incompetent and arrogant. He accused them of deceiving Ghanaians with their policies.

The GH¢1 per litre surcharge on petroleum products was approved by Parliament. This surcharge is part of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The bill aims to raise funds for the energy sector's growing debt.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson stated that this debt is US$3.1 billion as of March 2025. An additional US$3.7 billion is needed to clear this debt fully. There is also a need for US$1.2 billion to secure fuel for thermal power production.

Critics, including Aboagye and the Minority in Parliament, have condemned this move. They label it a "predatory tax" that could cost consumers over GH¢5.7 billion annually. They are calling for transparency regarding how these funds will be used.

Many accuse the government of rushing this legislation without proper consultation or justification.