The Minority in Parliament, led by Alexander Afenyo-Markin, has accused the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration of hypocrisy and inconsistency over the introduction of the Energy Sector Reform Levy, popularly referred to by critics as the “Dumsor Levy.”

Addressing the media on behalf of the Minority Caucus, Afenyo-Markin argued that the NDC, which fiercely opposed the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) while in opposition, has now resorted to imposing what he described as similar taxes and levies on Ghanaians after assuming office.

According to him, the government’s decision contradicts its campaign promises to reduce the financial burden on citizens and improve living conditions.

“You scrapped the E-Levy only to bring it back through the back door,” the Minority Leader stated. “Today, Ghanaians are being confronted with more taxes and levies despite assurances that the burden on the ordinary citizen would be reduced.”

The Minority further contended that the Energy Sector Reform Levy would lead to increases in fuel prices and transportation costs, thereby worsening the economic hardships already facing many households and businesses across the country.

Afenyo-Markin said the policy shift raises concerns about the government’s credibility and commitment to the promises it made to Ghanaians ahead of the elections.

He called on Parliament, civil society organisations, and the general public to closely scrutinise the levy and demand accountability from the government.

He therefore called on the finance minister, Ato Forson to appear on the floor of parliament on Thursday to explain to Ghanaians why that gesture of reintroduction of the E- Levy.