The Member of Parliament for Berekum West Constituency, Hon. Dickson Kyere-Duah, has defended the government’s decision to impose an additional GH¢1 Energy Sector Recovery Levy (ESLA).
According to Hon. Kyere-Duah, this move is crucial for resolving the country’s substantial energy sector debts, which currently exceed $3.1 billion.
In an exclusive interview with journalists in Parliament, the MP expressed concerns about the mismanagement of revenues generated from the Energy Sector Levy Act (ESLA) by the previous NPP government, alleging that the funds were not used for their intended purpose, which necessitated the current government’s decision to introduce the additional levy.
Hon. Kyere-Duah explained that the energy sector requires an additional $1.8 billion to finance fuel for thermal power generation in the coming months and argued that the levy increase is a more balanced alternative that avoids passing costs directly to consumers.
The MP assured that the recent appreciation of the Ghana cedi has cushioned the impact of the levy and made a fervent appeal to Ghanaians to support the new levy, emphasizing its importance in stabilizing Ghana’s ailing energy sector.
The government’s proposal to impose the GH¢1 levy on every liter of petroleum product sold in the country has sparked a heated national conversation.
While some citizens and experts have expressed concerns about the potential impact on household budgets and the cost of living, Hon. Kyere-Duah believes the benefits of the levy outweigh the costs.
Hon. Dickson Kyere-Duah urged Ghanaians to continue supporting President John Mahama’s government, citing the progress made so far, particularly the appreciation of the cedi and reduction in fuel prices, as evidence of its commitment to the country’s development.
The funds generated from the levy are expected to be used to offset power sector debts, support infrastructure maintenance, and ensure a continuous electricity supply.
As the debate continues, Hon. Kyere-Duah’s defense of the government’s decision highlights the complexities of managing Ghana’s energy sector and the need for sustainable solutions.
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
