The Member of Parliament for South Tongu, Maxwell Kwame Lukutor, has indicated that the government will not rush to scrap the GH₵1 fuel levy, stressing that any decision on its removal will depend on prevailing economic conditions.
Speaking in an interview on JoyNews’ AM Show on March 19, 2026, the lawmaker explained that the government would carefully assess the situation on the ground before taking action.
According to him, the administration’s approach will be guided by necessity rather than pressure, emphasizing that decisions will be made only when deemed appropriate.
“When we deem it necessary, we will do so. We will watch and understand the situation on the ground before taking any decision,” he stated.
His comments come in response to calls from the parliamentary minority, who have urged the government to scrap the levy, arguing that it is worsening the financial burden on Ghanaians already struggling with the high cost of living.
However, Lukutor maintained that while the opposition is entitled to express its views, such suggestions will not dictate government policy.
“They can always make a call, but sincerely, we won’t take advice from them in that context,” he said.
He added that the government would place greater emphasis on the experiences and concerns of ordinary citizens when evaluating the impact of its policies.
The MP also cautioned against hasty decisions that could negatively affect the country’s revenue base, warning that removing key sources of income without proper planning could have serious consequences.
“Taking away sources of revenue for the country without putting things together will plunge us into a dead situation that we do not want to take Ghanaians into,” he cautioned.
Using the cocoa sector as an example, Lukutor noted that overreliance on protective measures without sustainable planning could lead to rising debt levels and a return to past economic challenges.
He stressed the need for discipline and prudent economic management, expressing confidence in the leadership of the President, the Finance Minister, and the Governor of the Bank of Ghana.
Lukutor reiterated that the government will proceed cautiously, assuring that any decision regarding the fuel levy will be taken only when conditions justify such a move, while urging the opposition to observe how the administration manages the situation.
