Pressure is building on the government to completely repeal the controversial Dumsor Levy, with Akosua Manu, the NPP’s parliamentary candidate for Adentan, leading the latest wave of criticism.
She described the policy as “embarrassing” and insisted that its mere suspension was not enough to address public discontent.
Appearing on Metro TV on Monday, June 16, Manu expressed concern over the financial burden the GH¢1-per-litre fuel charge would have imposed on Ghanaians during an already difficult economic period. “Its passage was embarrassing,” she said, condemning the timing and necessity of the levy.
The government had argued that the surcharge would help support the energy sector and pay off longstanding debts. However, critics say it reflects poor planning and a lack of stakeholder engagement, especially given the harsh economic climate.
While the Ghana Revenue Authority has announced a suspension of the levy’s implementation, Manu believes a full reversal is the only acceptable course. “The suspension isn’t a positive step, but what we need now is complete repeal,” she stressed.
She also criticised the administration’s justification for the levy, citing volatility in global oil prices as an inadequate excuse that fails to consider the already heavy financial strain on citizens. Manu urged the government to honour its promise of alleviating economic hardship instead of introducing new taxes.
As discussions continue, many see this moment as a chance for the government to adopt alternative solutions to Ghana’s power sector problems, without further squeezing households and businesses.
