Dr. Gideon Boako Criticises Government Over Proposed Extension of Energy Sector Recovery Levy

Dr. Gideon Boako Criticises Government Over Proposed Extension of Energy Sector Recovery Levy The Member of Parliament for Tano North, , has criticised the government's decision to seek parliamentary approval to extend the Energy Sector Recovery Levy to fuel oil, describing the move as an unnecessary burden on taxpayers. In a statement, Dr. Boako recalled that the government introduced the GH¢1 per litre Energy Sector Recovery Levy last year with the explanation that the revenue would be used to repay debts in the energy sector. He, however, referenced a World Bank report which, according to him, indicated that although the levy was collected, the debts were not repaid as originally intended. The Tano North MP questioned the rationale behind extending the levy to fuel oil, arguing that the Finance Minister attributed the proposal to fuel smuggling and non-compliance. He maintained that such challenges should be addressed through stronger enforcement measures rather than the imposition of additional taxes. According to Dr. Boako, increasing Taxes places an additional financial burden on Ghanaians at a Time when many households and Businesses are already facing Economic difficulties. The comments were made as Parliament considered the Finance Minister's proposal to extend the Energy Sector Recovery Levy to fuel oil. YADAH RADIO Online will continue to provide balanced coverage of parliamentary proceedings and national policy issues, while offering all stakeholders the opportunity to express their views.