'Ghanaians deserve an apology' – Dr Stephen Amoah reacts to new petroleum levy

The Member of Parliament for Nhyiaeso, Dr Stephen Amoah, has accused the government of hypocrisy and propaganda over their stance on taxation, citing what he describes as a complete reversal of their previous position on imposition of new taxes.

In an interview with 1975 News on Wednesday June 4, 2025, Dr Amoah argued that Ghana operates a negative effective tax rate economy, meaning the country spends more than it generates internally—hence constantly running a deficit. From this perspective, he said there is nothing inherently wrong with introducing or increasing taxes.

"Honestly speaking, considering the fact that we are running a negative effective tax rate economy, I don't want to give a very long explanation. All it means is that characteristically, we spend more than we generate internally. So, we are always running a deficit economy. From that background, I would have said there is nothing wrong with introducing taxes," he explained.

Dr Amoah expressed surprise that the same individuals who previously opposed tax measures often vehemently have now turned around to introduce new taxes within just five to six months of assuming power.

"You can’t forget that they demonized any form of tax introduction or increment in this country. Even I personally was attacked by people from different social groups because they thought it was evil to introduce any tax. So, I’m surprised that within a few months, these same people are introducing new taxes—some of which were in their own budget," he said.

The lawmaker called on the current government to issue a public apology to Ghanaians.

"They should come and apologise to the minority, apologise to the then NPP government, and apologise to Ghanaians. They should admit they lied, used propaganda, and incited the entire Ghanaian community against the very policies they are now pursuing—and in some cases, doing even worse", Dr Amoah added.

He stated that in due time, the NPP will scrutinise the government's new tax measures within the context of national fiscal policy and what he called the politicisation of taxation in Ghana.

Parliament has approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, introducing a GH¢1 levy on petroleum products.

It aims to raise additional revenue to address the nation’s severe energy sector debt and ensure a stable power supply.

Watch the video below:

The Member of Parliament for Nhyaeso Constituency, Stephen Amoah, says he does not oppose the newly introduced GHC 1 Energy Levy but insists the government must apologize to Ghanaians for harshly criticizing the previous administration over similar taxes, only to now introduce… pic.twitter.com/1ZYlnkoAYQ

— ThisIsNeneOdompleh (@The1957News) June 4, 2025