Unified Group Calls on Gov’t to withdraw ‘Unnecessary’ Emission levy

A group calling it’s self as “Unified Group” has implored  the government and as a matter of urgency withdraw the killer emission levy imposed on vehicles.

In a Press release signed by the group’s National Communication Coordinator, Nana Kwakye Anarfi, the group expressed it’s vehement disapproval of the Akuffo Addo led administration’s inane decision to impose a new emission levy on already suffering Ghanaians

The ruling government led by Akuffo Addo announced the imposition of a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions on internal combustion engine vehicles in accordance with the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112).

The Emissions Levy which is said to be in line with the government’s efforts aimed at addressing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting the use of eco-friendly technology, and ensuring a safe environment for the citizenry.

Meanwhile, majority of Ghanaians, particularly car owners, drivers, and motorists, have whined bitterly about this emission levy, citing heavy  economic burdens  it adds to the predicament of Ghanaians.

The implementation of the emission levy was given the greenlight and forced into system on February 1.

Addressing the media, the convener of the group,Mr Sarfo Kantanka indicated that, the emission levy is unfairly targeting Ghanaians who solely rely on vehicles and generators for transportation and power thus ignoring the real culprit which is the large industrial companies whose activities contribute significantly to the country’s emissions.

“The government’s own negligence in combating illegal minning and deforestation through illegal minning popularly known as galamsey practices further undermines it’s sincerity regarding environmental protection” part of the statement reads.

Read below the Press release

Unified Group Denounces Akufo-Addo Administration’s “Tax-Heavy, Emission-Blind” Policy

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Kumasi, Ghana

2nd February, 2024

The Unified Group expresses its vehement disapproval of the Akufo-Addo administration’s decision to impose a new emission levy on Ghanaians. This latest addition to the already staggering tax burden placed on ordinary citizens comes at a time of immense economic hardship and fuels deep disappointment in the government’s approach to environmental protection and economic policy.

Despite repeated commitments to shift the economy from taxation to production, the Akufo-Addo administration has implemented over 50 taxes since 2017. These taxes, including the VAT increase, Special Import Levy, and E-Levy, have demonstrably failed to improve economic conditions or benefit the average Ghanaian. On the contrary, they have exacerbated.

The Unified Group finds the justification for the Emission Levy particularly disingenuous. Reports clearly show that Ghana’s contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions pales in comparison to major polluters like China, the United States, and India, which emit over 14,400 billion metric tonnes of carbon, 6,390 metric ns, and 3,5 3,520 metric tonnes, respectively.

These nations focus on renewable energy infrastructure and sustainable policies to tackle climate change, not punitive taxes on citizens struggling to make ends meet.

Ghana as a country is nowhere near those countries that pumped out around 50 billion metric tonnes of greenhouse gases. Why then has this government resorted to punitive taxes while neglecting the basic measures that need to be implemented?

The Emission Levy unfairly targets ordinary Ghanaians who rely on vehicles and generators for transportation and power. It ignores the real culprits—large industrial companies whose activities contribute significantly to the country’s emissions. Moreover, the government’s own negligence in combating illegal mining and deforestation through “galamsey” practices further undermines its sincerity regarding environmental protection.

The Unified Group demands the immediate cancellation of the emission levy. We urge Ghanaians to rise up against this unjust burden and call upon the government to implement policies that:

• Shift focus from taxation to production and economic growth.

• Hold industrial polluters accountable and encourage sustainable practices.

• Prioritise renewable energy investment and environmental protection initiatives.

• Address the root causes of economic hardship and offer concrete solutions to improve the lives of ordinary Ghanaians.

The time for empty promises and misguided policies is over. We demand responsible leadership that prioritises the well-being of its citizens and the sustainability of our environment.

Together, let us build a fairer and more prosperous Ghana.

Issued by

1. Nana Kwakye Anarfi

National Communication Coordinator

The Unified Group

+233 024 167 4170

2. Mr. Kofi Amoabeng Asante

National Deputy Communication Coordinator

The Unified Group

+233 24 442 2362

By Lawrence Odoom