Government understands public disquiet over Dumsor Levy - Kwakye Ofosu

Minister Felix Kwakye Ofosu has acknowledged public dissatisfaction with the Dumsor Levy. He assured Ghanaians that the government is aware of their concerns.

On JoyNews’ *Newsfile* programme on Saturday, June 7, he emphasized that the administration sees the difficulties citizens face.

“We understand fully the disquiet over the levy,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu said. He noted that many Ghanaians suffered under the previous Akufo-Addo government’s taxes.

His comments come amid backlash against a GH¢1 per litre surcharge on fuel. This surcharge was introduced under the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson defended this measure urgently. He cited a crippling debt burden in the energy sector.

As of March 2025, total indebtedness stood at US$3.1 billion. An estimated US$3.7 billion is needed to clear it, plus US$1.2 billion for fuel purchases throughout the year.

The Minority Caucus in Parliament condemned the levy as a “predatory tax.” They estimate it will cost households and businesses about GH¢5.7 billion annually.

They argue that the legislation was rushed without proper stakeholder engagement or transparency. The Minority has demanded clarity on how these funds will be used.