Parliament has approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing a GHS1 increase in the levy on petroleum products—but not without political fireworks. The Minority Caucus staged a dramatic walkout, accusing the Majority of forcing through the bill without the required quorum and decrying the move as burdensome on Ghanaians.
The amendment, championed by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, aims to raise an additional GHS5.7 billion in revenue to address Ghana’s mounting energy sector debt, which currently stands at $3.1 billion. Forson explained that a further $1.2 billion is needed this year to secure fuel for thermal power generation, warning of potential power instability if funding gaps persist.
Despite public concern over the impact on fuel prices, Dr. Forson insisted the increase would not lead to a rise in ex-pump prices at the pump.
The Minority, however, remained unconvinced. Labeling the levy “ill-timed” and “anti-people,” they walked out of the chamber during the approval vote, leaving behind questions about the legitimacy of the decision.
“This is not just bad policy—it’s parliamentary abuse,” one Minority MP told reporters outside the chamber. “The Majority simply didn’t have the numbers. This levy will hit ordinary Ghanaians hard at a time they’re already struggling.”
The bill’s passage adds to growing political tensions around fiscal policy and public hardship, with analysts warning of wider fallout if the public perceives the levy as unjustified.
