General News of Saturday, 7 June 2025
Source: www.ghanawebbers.com
Dennis Miracles Aboagye, an aide to former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, criticized the Mahama administration. He spoke on JoyNews’ Newsfile programme on Saturday, June 7. Aboagye accused the current government of betraying public trust.
He claimed they used deceit to gain power. “It is a betrayal of trust,” he said. He described the government as incompetent and arrogant.
Aboagye's comments were in response to the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This legislation imposes a GH¢1 surcharge per litre on petroleum products. The goal is to raise revenue for the energy sector.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson defended the bill in Parliament. He stated that the energy sector owes US$3.1 billion as of March 2025. He added that US$3.7 billion is needed to clear this debt.
Additionally, he mentioned that US$1.2 billion is required for fuel procurement this year. However, the Minority Caucus condemned the levy as a “predatory tax.” They estimate it will take GH¢5.7 billion annually from households and businesses.
The Minority argued that the bill was rushed through Parliament without proper consultation or transparency. They called for full disclosure on how the funds will be managed.