HOT AUDIO: Tell Ghanaians the truth about the Fuel Levy – Gov’t told

The African Institute of Energy Sustainability (AIES) is raising serious concerns about the government’s new GH¢1 energy levy, popularly called the “Dumsor Levy.”

Dr. Samiu Kwadwo Nuamah, the Executive Director of AIES, says the levy is just a cover-up and an attempt by the government to create fear among Ghanaians. He believes it has nothing to do with solving problems in the energy sector.

Speaking on Adom FM’s Dwaso Nsem, Dr. Nuamah questioned why a levy meant to fix energy issues should affect the transport sector. “Every time a new government comes, they claim the energy sector is in debt just to bring new taxes. This is a trend. If there’s really a problem, why target transportation?” he asked.

He believes the government is not being truthful and only wants to raise money because of a shortfall caused by the recent strength of the cedi. “They should be honest with us. We are tired,” he said.

Dr. Nuamah warned that the levy will cause fuel prices to go up, which will increase the cost of food, transport, and even basic household goods.

Although he admitted that the energy sector has debts, he blamed it on poor management. He called for real reforms instead of putting more burden on Ghanaians through taxes.

AIES is demanding that the government cancel the levy immediately.

His comments come after Parliament passed the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The new law adds GH¢1 to petroleum product levies.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson said the money will be used to clear $3.1 billion in debts and raise $1.2 billion to buy fuel for thermal power plants.

But many Ghanaians and political groups, especially the New Patriotic Party (NPP), are unhappy with the new tax and are planning protests if it is not withdrawn.

expenses.