Emissions levy is a ploy to take more cash from Ghanaians – Apaak

Emissions levy is a ploy to take more cash from Ghanaians per the observations of the Member of Parliament for Builsa South, Dr. Clement Apaak. He has stated that the Emission levy being introduced by the government is a ploy to take more money from the good people of Ghana.

The the Emissions levy details revealed, owners of automobiles in Ghana will pay between GHS75 and GHS400.00 a year when renewing their road worthy certificates.

Thursday marked the beginning of the GRA’s collection of the yearly charge, which had been authorised by parliament in December.

In Ghana, the fees for motorised tricycles and motorbikes range from 75 Ghanaian cedis (about $6 or £4) to 300 Ghanaian cedis (approximately $24) for vehicles with a capacity of 3,000cc or more.

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The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) announcing the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112) which comes into effect February 1, 2024.

The GRA indicated that ACT is to impose a levy on carbon dioxide equivalent emissions on internal combustion engine vehicles.

The GRA further explained that the move forms part of the government’s efforts aimed at dealing with greenhouse gas emissions to encourage the use of green energy and eco-friendly technology to enhance environmental management and reduce overall pollution levels in the air and water.

Commenting on the development, the Builsa South lawmaker stated that the government should rather concentrate on solving the issue of illegal mining that is causing destruction to the rivers.

“If this gov’t is interested in protecting the environment or mitigating the effects of climate change, it should deal with the destruction of our forests and the pollution of our rivers as a result of illegal mining.

“This emissions levy or tax is only a ploy to take more money from Ghanaians. What exactly is the government going to do with the proceeds from the emissions tax that will benefit us and the environment? Has the government shown us a programme of interventions the money will be used for and to mitigate the effects of emissions? Has a fund been established in which the emissions tax will be lodged into for such a purpose? Is the money not going into the consolidated fund like every other tax they have imposed on us?” Dr. Apaak asked in a statement.

He continued: “Ghanaians must resist this and other unjustified taxes being imposed on us by a government that has collapsed our economy and impoverished Ghanaians.”

The question on the lips of Ghana is whether Emissions levy  is justified and why impose all manner of taxes on the ordinary people just to make milk them dry.

Source: Today.com.gh