Commercial Transport Operators Threaten Nationwide Strike On June 10 Over New Energy Levy – GhArticles.com
Commercial transport operators across Ghana are gearing up for a nationwide strike on Monday, June 10, 2025, in response to the government’s introduction of a new GHS1.00 levy on petroleum products, widely known as the “Dumsor Levy.”
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has strongly condemned the levy, arguing that it will deepen the financial burden on drivers and transport businesses. Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, June 5, GPRTU’s Industrial Public Relations Officer, Abass Ibrahim Imoro, criticized the government’s decision, saying it lacked proper consultation with stakeholders.
“This levy will worsen the hardship commercial drivers are already facing. Rising operational costs could force many out of business,” he stated.
GPRTU is demanding an immediate reversal of the levy and has called on the government to engage them and other key stakeholders in discussions to find a more sustainable solution.
“If our appeal is ignored, we will have no choice but to park our vehicles and embark on industrial action from June 10,” Imoro warned.
The levy stems from the recent passage of the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025, which increases the tax on petroleum products by GHS1. Government estimates show the levy could generate GHS5.7 billion in revenue.
Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson explained that the funds will go toward reducing Ghana’s energy sector debt, currently pegged at $3.1 billion, and securing $1.2 billion worth of fuel for thermal power generation in 2025.