Bawumia Warns Of Harsher Taxes Under Mahama's Return

Former Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia has issued a warning to Ghanaians. He cautioned them about an “onslaught of taxes” if President John Mahama returns to power.

During his thank-you tour in the Central Region, Dr. Bawumia criticized the new Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill. This bill raises levies on petroleum products by GH₵1. It was approved by Parliament on June 3 and aims to raise GH₵5.7 billion for the energy sector.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson defended the levy. He stated that funds are urgently needed for fuel procurement and stable electricity generation. The GH₵1 increase is necessary to prevent power outages, known as "dumsor."

Dr. Forson explained that current electricity tariffs do not cover fuel costs for thermal plants. He mentioned that an additional $1.2 billion is needed this year for consistent power supply.

Dr. Bawumia disagrees with this approach. Speaking to enthusiastic supporters, he accused the Mahama administration of imposing “crippling taxes” under energy reform pretenses.

He highlighted a new tax called the dumsor levy, claiming it is eight times the E-Levy amount. For example, buying fuel worth GH₵1000 will incur an additional GH₵83 in this tax alone.

Bawumia urged citizens to prepare for more taxes ahead. He framed this tax as a sign of a harsher tax regime under Mahama's leadership, emphasizing that economic recovery should not burden citizens further.