The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has raised serious concerns over new tax proposals put forward by the Interior and Sanitation Ministers. The union warns that these measures could significantly worsen the financial strain on businesses and ordinary Ghanaians. This opposition comes just as Parliament has abolished the E-Levy, betting tax, and other levies deemed burdensome.
Sanitation Fund and Levy Proposal
The Minister for Local Government, Chieftaincy, and Religious Affairs, Ahmed Ibrahim, has proposed the creation of a sanitation fund supported by a levy. According to him, this initiative is essential for tackling Ghana’s escalating waste management crisis. He argues that a dedicated tax would secure the necessary resources to enhance sanitation efforts nationwide.
Speaking on the issue, Ibrahim noted, “Sanitation has become a national crisis. A levy specifically earmarked for this purpose will ensure sustainable solutions to improve cleanliness in our communities.”
Fuel Levy for Fire Service Improvement
Meanwhile, the Interior Minister and MP for Asawase, Muntaka Mubarak, has suggested a fuel levy to bolster the Ghana National Fire Service. This proposal follows public outcry over the government’s perceived inadequate response to the recent Adum fire disaster in Kumasi. Mubarak has recommended a 10-pesewa-per-litre levy on fuel, emphasizing the dire need for modern firefighting equipment.
“All of us need to contribute,” he stated. “The way to do that, in my view, is by dedicating just 10 pesewas per litre of fuel solely for fire services.”
The minister disclosed that the country’s newest fire tenders were acquired over a decade ago, during the 2014 procurement cycle, highlighting the urgent need for investment in firefighting infrastructure.
“When I assumed office at the Ministry for the Interior, I discovered that the newest fire tender we had was procured in 2014. That is more than 10 years ago. How can we effectively respond to emergencies under such conditions?” he lamented.
GPRTU Pushes Back
The GPRTU has firmly rejected the proposed fuel levy, describing it as an unfair burden on transport operators and the general public. Abass Imoro, the Industrial Relations Officer for GPRTU, has urged the government to reconsider, especially in light of current economic challenges.
“We were hoping for a further reduction in fuel prices to ease the pressure on transport operators and commuters,” Imoro stated. “Adding 10 pesewas or more per litre will be a step in the wrong direction. I don’t think any professional driver will welcome this move. We plead for a second thought on this.”
Call for Comprehensive Dialogue
The GPRTU’s opposition underscores the broader concern among stakeholders about the introduction of new taxes without adequate consultations. Many argue that the government should prioritize reducing inefficiencies and exploring alternative revenue sources rather than placing additional burdens on already struggling citizens and businesses.
The debate over these new tax proposals is expected to intensify as discussions in Parliament and among stakeholders progress. For now, the GPRTU remains resolute in its stance, calling for a review that considers the economic realities of Ghanaians.
Story by: Mercy Addai Turkson #ahotoronline.com
