Effia MP Slams Mahama, NDC Over New Dumsor Levy: ‘A Betrayal of Public Trust’

The Member of Parliament for Effia and a member of Parliament’s Finance Committee, Isaac Boamah-Nyarko, has strongly criticised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) and the administration of former President John Dramani Mahama over the newly-approved 1% energy levy on petroleum products, labelling it a betrayal of public trust.

In an exclusive interview with GhanaWeb’s George Ayisi, Boamah-Nyarko joined a growing chorus of concern from energy experts and citizens who argue that the levy imposes an additional burden on already struggling Ghanaians.

While acknowledging the pressing financial challenges within Ghana’s energy sector—particularly the mounting debts of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG)—the Effia MP insisted that these inefficiencies should not be used as grounds to pass on costs to consumers.

“We all agree the debts are significant and something needs to be done. The Energy Minister said there are ongoing discussions with Independent Power Producers (IPPs) to review their charges downward. They’re also considering reintroducing private sector partnerships to support ECG,” he explained. “But if we need to raise funds to address these debts, do we really need to add GH¢1 per litre of fuel?”

Parliament passed the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The bill introduces a GH¢1 charge on every litre of petroleum product, aimed at generating an estimated GH¢5.7 billion to support the energy sector and ensure a stable electricity supply nationwide.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson defended the levy, citing the urgent need for sustainable funding within the energy sector.

However, Boamah-Nyarko warned that the tax could spark inflation and deepen economic hardship for ordinary citizens. He described the decision as abrupt and counterproductive, particularly given prior government assurances to reduce taxes.

“The average Ghanaian won’t trust politicians or the government anymore. We were promised tax reductions, and now we’re seeing new taxes. Prices had started to decline, but this move could stall or reverse that trend,” he noted. “The impact is real. No one should shy away from this. If we don’t get our priorities right, this decision could seriously erode public confidence.”