Source: Vincent Kwofie
The People’s Forum has petitioned the government to suspend selected fuel-related levies and instead rely on petroleum windfall revenues to address potential revenue shortfalls.
According to the group, removing these charges would help ease the growing financial burden on households and businesses grappling with the rising cost of living.
In a petition submitted to the finance minister on Tuesday, April 7, the Forum called for the suspension of the Price Stabilisation Levy, the abolition of the Borla Tax, and the removal of the newly introduced GH¢1.00 per litre levy. It further proposed that any resulting revenue gaps be covered through petroleum windfall gains.
The group argued that Ghanaians are facing increasing economic pressure as rising fuel prices continue to drive up the cost of transport, food, rent, and other essential goods and services.
“The current situation is worsening living conditions for workers, traders, drivers, and families across the country,” the petition stated, highlighting that many workers who have gone months without pay are still forced to bear higher commuting costs, while market women struggle with declining purchasing power.
It added that commercial drivers are finding it increasingly difficult to operate, while many households are cutting down on meals to cope with the economic strain.
The Forum also referenced the manifesto of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2024 elections, noting that it included a commitment to suspend the Price Stabilisation Levy during periods of economic hardship—an assurance the group says has yet to be fulfilled.
Additionally, the petition criticised the continued collection of the Borla Tax, which the NDC had previously opposed while in opposition, describing it as exploitative and anti-poor.
The group further raised concerns about the GH¢1.00 per litre levy introduced to support fuel for electricity generation. Citing data from the Energy Commission, it argued that 97.5 per cent of energy generation costs are already recovered through electricity tariffs, making the levy an unnecessary double charge on citizens.
The People’s Forum also called on citizens to speak out and support the campaign, emphasising that the government must be held accountable for its responsibility of protecting livelihoods.
