A stalwart of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), Odeneho Kwaku Appiah, popularly known as COKA, has criticised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government over the recent imposition of a GH¢1 levy on petroleum products.
He warned that the move would result in an inevitable increase in transport fares and a subsequent rise in the cost of goods and services.
According to COKA, the new levy means that consumers will now pay an additional GH¢4.5 for every gallon (4.5 litres) of fuel purchased, a situation he described as insensitive and burdensome for ordinary Ghanaians already grappling with economic hardships.
In a strongly-worded post on social media, the former NPP Ashanti Regional Chairman aspirant questioned the rationale behind the timing of the levy and its potential impact on the already struggling economy.
“This is not the time to impose such levies on the people. Ghanaians are suffering, and this only worsens the situation,” he stated.
He further cautioned that commercial drivers would be left with no choice but to pass the extra cost onto passengers, thereby fuelling inflation and worsening the cost of living.
COKA urged the government to reconsider the policy and explore more sustainable and less punitive means of revenue generation, emphasising the need to protect the welfare of citizens during these difficult times.
By; Nana Yaw Owusu.
