The government’s proposed GH¢1.00 per litre fuel levy is set to take effect on Wednesday, July 16, after a brief postponement to allow for further consultations.

The levy, aimed at restoring stability in the country’s power sector, has faced strong opposition from the minority in Parliament as well as key stakeholders in the transport and oil industries.

However, the Coalition of Commercial Transport Operators is calling for the suspension of the policy, describing it as a “reckless and retrogressive” tax imposed without adequate stakeholder engagement.

The Coalition—which represents over 90% of commercial transport providers nationwide—warns that if the levy is implemented as planned, commuters should expect a nationwide 30% increase in transport fares starting July 16.

Speaking to Citi News, Charles Danso, Chairman of the Ghana Committed Drivers Association, said the levy is unsustainable and would drive many operators out of business.

“This is not just a GH¢1 tax. We are already paying a 17.2% tax component on electricity, which includes drivers. Now the government wants to impose another levy on fuel—it’s unbearable,” he said.

“If the government refuses to listen to us, we will have no option but to pass the cost onto commuters by increasing fares by 30%.”