President John Dramani Mahama has defended the newly introduced GH¢1 Energy Sector Levy on petroleum products, calling it a “difficult but necessary” decision aimed at stabilizing Ghana’s economy and safeguarding essential public services.
Speaking at the Jubilee House during the presentation of the final report of the National Economic Dialogue 2025, the President acknowledged public concern over the levy but maintained that the measure is a prudent step toward addressing long-standing fiscal imbalances, particularly in the energy sector
The President’s comments follow the passage of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, by Parliament, which mandates a GH¢1 charge on every litre of fuel purchased.
The bill, tabled by Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, is expected to raise GH¢5.7 billion annually to tackle a US$3.1 billion energy sector debt and ensure uninterrupted power supply.
Although the minority strongly opposed the move and staged a walkout, the government argues that the levy is crucial for economic recovery. The Finance Minister further assured that the levy would not immediately affect pump prices, citing the current strength of the Ghana cedi.
