The Minority in Parliament is demanding the immediate withdrawal of the recently passed Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to impose a tax of GH¢1 per litre on fuel.
The Minority has accused the government of acting in bad faith, describing the bill’s passage as unilateral and lacking due consultation.
Parliament approved the bill earlier this week under a certificate of urgency, aiming to raise funds to address a $3.1 billion debt in the energy sector.
The Minority, however, boycotted the proceedings in protest, alleging the government smuggled the bill through without consulting parliamentary leadership.
Speaking to journalists in Parliament, Minority Chief Whip Frank Annoh-Dompreh condemned the move, warning that the opposition would employ every legal and constitutional means to resist the levy.
He hinted at possible street protests, public forums, and other civil engagements to pressure the government to rescind the decision.
“This imposition is not only unjustified but also insensitive at a time when Ghanaians are grappling with rising living costs,” said the Nsawam-Adoagyiri MP. “Why hasn’t President Mahama scrapped the free fuel policy for government appointees if we are truly in crisis?”
The Minority insists that the energy sector reforms should be more transparent and equitable, calling on the government to reconsider its approach to resolving the sector’s financial challenges.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
