Public backlash is intensifying as the government’s controversial GH¢1 per litre fuel levy officially comes into force, triggering an immediate hike in fuel prices and drawing sharp criticism from the Minority in Parliament.
Kojo Oppong Nkrumah, Ranking Member on Parliament’s Economy and Development Committee, is leading calls for the immediate withdrawal of the levy, warning that its implementation is compounding the already dire economic pressures faced by Ghanaians.
In an interview on Citi FM’s Eyewitness News on Wednesday, July 16, Nkrumah accused the government of forcing the levy through Parliament without adequate scrutiny, ignoring repeated warnings from the Minority and industry experts.
“This was smuggled through with very little regard for its real-world consequences,” he stated. “We predicted an average increase of 8% in fuel prices, and that is exactly what’s playing out now.”
Originally introduced as a revenue measure to support Ghana’s struggling power sector, the levy has been widely criticised by transport unions, petroleum marketers, and consumer advocacy groups. Many argue it was poorly timed, coming on the heels of persistent inflation, currency depreciation, and high utility costs.
Nkrumah also took aim at the Energy Ministry for what he described as misleading assurances. “We were told this was smart and innovative policy that wouldn’t affect prices. But the numbers never added up,” he said.
Although the government delayed the implementation of the levy several times amid public resistance, the July 16 rollout has already led to fuel price adjustments at several pumps nationwide.
Transport operators and civil society groups are now mobilising for action, warning that the levy could have cascading effects on transport fares and food prices. Meanwhile, the Minority insists it will continue to mount pressure on the government to reverse what it calls a “reckless and insensitive” policy.
