The Minority in Parliament has condemned government’s move to implement the GHS1-per-litre levy on petroleum products, labeling it as “midnight robbery” against Ghanaians.
Speaking at a media briefing on June 9, Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Ranking Member of Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, condemned the lack of transparency surrounding the passage of the levy, comparing it to the E-Levy, which underwent public consultation and parliamentary debate.
“This fuel levy was smuggled through Parliament without any engagement or scrutiny. It was neither advertised in the budget nor on the main order paper for the day. That is why we say this amounts to midnight robbery”.
He further argued that the new levy would have a far-reaching cascading effect potentially over 100%, as it would drive up transportation costs and, consequently, inflation on essential goods and services.
Parliament approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025 on June 3, introducing an additional charges aimed at generating GHS5.7 billion to settle energy sector debts and fund thermal fuel purchases for power generation.
However, critics, including the Chamber of Oil Marketing Companies (COMAC)warn that the measure could dramatically increase fuel prices and further strain households already grappling with economic hardship.
Following public backlash, the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has postponed implementation of the levy from June 9 to June 16 after discussions with industry stakeholders.
In response, Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson defended the measure, citing Ghana’s $3.1 billion energy-related debt and the need for $3.7 billion to clear arrears, alongside $1.2 billion for fuel purchases in 2025.
