Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has acknowledged growing public dissatisfaction over the newly introduced Dumsor Levy, assuring citizens that the government is sensitive to their concerns.
In an interview on JoyNews’ Newsfile on Saturday, June 7, Kwakye Ofosu emphasized that the administration is fully aware of the economic challenges facing many Ghanaians.
“As a government, we understand fully the disquiet that Ghanaians have expressed over the levy, considering the sufferings that they were subjected to by the erstwhile Akufo-Addo government and the taxes that they piled on them,” he stated.
The controversial levy, introduced through the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, imposes a GH¢1 per litre surcharge on petroleum products. The bill, tabled by Finance Minister Dr Cassiel Ato Forson under a certificate of urgency, is part of efforts to address Ghana’s growing energy sector debt.
According to Dr Forson, the country’s energy sector debt stood at US$3.1 billion as of March 2025. An estimated US$3.7 billion is needed to clear this debt, while US$1.2 billion will be required to secure fuel for thermal power generation throughout the year.
Despite the government’s justification, the Minority in Parliament has harshly criticized the Dumsor Levy, describing it as a “predatory tax”. They estimate the new surcharge could cost Ghanaian households and businesses approximately GH¢5.7 billion annually.
The Minority also claims the bill was passed hastily without sufficient stakeholder consultation or transparency. They are calling for greater clarity on how the funds generated by the levy will be managed and used to resolve the energy crisis.
The introduction of the Dumsor Levy has sparked nationwide debate, with many citizens and analysts questioning its impact on the cost of living and the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s energy sector.
