Henry Nana Boakye, the National Organizer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called on the government to immediately revoke the recently imposed emission levy on vehicles.
The imposition of a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions for internal combustion engine vehicles, as outlined in the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), was announced by the government this week. This measure aligns with the government’s broader initiatives aimed at addressing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting eco-friendly technology, and ensuring environmental safety.
Several citizens are opposing the charge, which they see as an additional burden amid an ongoing economic crisis. Despite these concerns, the government, through the Ghana Revenue Authority, has proceeded with the implementation of the levy, which officially came into effect on February 1.
Speaking during a panel discussion on Peace FM’s “Kokrokoo” show, Henry Nana Boakye, popularly known as “Nana B,” urged the government to heed the grievances of the public and cease the implementation of the levy.
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“The government must withdraw it immediately. It is unnecessary…What is Emission Levy?” questioned Nana B, emphasizing the economic pressures induced by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war, ” he said.
Even though BBC reports that some leaders and environmental groups are endorsing it, saying it will cut the country’s emissions and help raise more revenue for the government, Nana Boakye sides with many Ghanaians who feel overburdened by the current economic crisis.
“We don’t have to further burden Ghanaians…For me, that emissions levy must be withdrawn ASAP. Let’s listen to what the grassroots are saying. I’m the National Organizer of my party; I listen to my people,” he said.
Nana B also cautioned against the imposition of Value Added Tax (VAT) on electricity consumption, stressing that this tax, along with the emissions levy, should be rescinded. He asserted that his stance aligns with the position of the ruling New Patriotic Party, stating, “I am not stating my individual position. That is the position of the party.”
Ghana has become the third African nation to implement a variation of a carbon tax, following in the footsteps of South Africa and Mauritius.
