Mr. Emmanuel Gemegah, the Municipal Chief Executive of Keta, has defended the introduction of the new emissions levy on vehicles, scheduled to take effect from February 1. The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) announced the Emissions Levy Act, 2023 (Act 1112), which imposes a levy on carbon dioxide and equivalent emissions from internal combustion engine vehicles.
The levy has sparked controversy among some Ghanaians, who view it as an additional burden on vehicle owners. In an exclusive interview with the Ghana News Agency, Mr Gemegah justified the collection, stating that the act was passed in Parliament with the support of members from both parties. He referenced the international Paris Accord, adopted in 2015, which emphasizes the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions to promote eco-friendly technology and green energy.
Mr. Gemegah called on parliamentarians, including Mr. Kwame Gakpey, Mr Richard Sefe, and Madam Dzifa Gomashie, to educate the public about the levy and its purpose. He emphasized that taxes play a crucial role in national development, urging citizens to embrace the culture of paying taxes for community improvement.
According to the act, motorcycles and tricycles will pay GH¢75 annually, motor vehicles, buses, and coaches up to 3000 cubic centimetres will be charged GH¢150 per annum, those above 3000 cubic centimetres will pay GH¢300 per annum, and cargo trucks and articulated trucks are to pay GH¢300 per annum. Mr. Gemegah urged citizens to accept the levy, emphasizing its role in funding essential services and infrastructure development.
