Political commentator and social advocate, Tanko Mubarik popularly known MUBA has expressed strong disapproval of the recently introduced Petrol Levy under the National Democratic Congress (NDC) administration, describing it as a significantly harsher financial burden on Ghanaians compared to the Electronic Transfer Levy (E-Levy) implemented by the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) government.
In a statement titled “MUBA Writes,” he argued that while the E-Levy required citizens to pay GH₵1.00 on every GH₵100.00 of electronic transactions — a 1% charge — the new Petrol Levy imposes GH₵1.00 on every GH₵12.00 of fuel purchased. This, he claims, effectively amounts to an 8.33% levy on fuel, a drastic increase that could intensify the cost of living across the country.
“The Petrol Levy is plainly different and far more draconian,” MUBA stated. “Ghanaians are now compelled to pay GH₵8.00 on every GH₵100.00 spent on fuel — a significant and alarming shift from the modest E-Levy.”
He warned that the economic implications of this policy, combined with recent hikes in utility tariffs, would deepen the financial strain on already struggling households. In May 2025, electricity tariffs were increased by 14.75%, while water tariffs rose by 4.04%.
“These back-to-back increases paint a picture of a government disconnected from the realities of ordinary citizens,” he added. “The trajectory of these decisions, if unchecked, will inevitably lead to further public dissatisfaction and hardship.”
Invoking a Gonja proverb — “If the market would be full, it starts from the morning” — MUBA suggested that the early signs of poor policy decisions indicate potential long-term failure for the current administration.
He concluded with a cautionary note, stating that “the writing is on the wall,” and it is only a matter of time before the effects of what he termed “short-sighted and insensitive” policies become visible in the broader economic landscape.
Source: Padfm.com.gh/Kumatey Gorden/0243531604
