Barely six months into its tenure, the John Mahama-led administration is facing a fierce public backlash following the introduction of a new fuel tax — dubbed the “Dumsor Levy” — which critics say will deepen the economic hardship already faced by many Ghanaians.
The levy, introduced to supposedly fund energy sector liabilities, is being compared unfavorably to the controversial E-Levy, which was widely criticized for its impact on mobile money transactions. Civil society groups, citizens, and policy analysts have condemned the move as a betrayal of public trust, especially considering the NDC’s strong opposition to similar taxes while in opposition.
Adding to the controversy is the government’s simultaneous claim of impressive economic performance. Just days ago, officials announced that the Ghana Gold Board had recorded record revenues in the first quarter of the year. Furthermore, the Mahama administration’s economic team has been hailed by party communicators as capable of recovering over ₵21 billion in mismanaged or lost resources.
“If the government truly believes it is generating such massive revenue and recovering billions in reserves, why the need for a new levy that places more burden on the already struggling Ghanaian?” asked a civil society advocate in Accra.
Social media has erupted with criticisms, with many users sharing past videos of NDC officials decrying similar levies under the previous administration. Many argue that the imposition of the Dumsor Levy represents a stark contradiction of the NDC’s promise to lessen the tax burden on citizens.
“This is not just about a levy. It’s about credibility, consistency, and trust,” said Kwame Boakye, a political economist. “You cannot campaign against hardship taxes and then implement worse within months of assuming office.”
The NDC, which campaigned on a message of relief and economic inclusiveness, now faces mounting pressure to withdraw the Dumsor Levy immediately if it hopes to retain public confidence.
As tensions rise, Ghanaians await a clear justification from the presidency — or a policy reversal that reflects the values they preached in opposition.
source: www.nsemgh.com
