Afenyo-Markin: NDC promised energy sector reforms but increased tariffs instead

Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has criticised the government over what he describes as a failure to implement meaningful reforms in Ghana’s energy sector despite repeated increases in electricity tariffs and the introduction of the controversial GH¢1 fuel levy.

Speaking in an exclusive interview on TV3 Ghana on Tuesday, May 12, the Effutu Member of Parliament argued that the government has focused more on increasing charges to consumers rather than addressing the structural challenges affecting the energy sector.

According to him, electricity tariffs have already increased by nearly 30 percent since the current administration assumed office, yet there is little evidence of substantial reforms capable of ensuring long-term sustainability in the sector.

“But what has the government done since they assumed office? They made huge promises, they have not embarked on any serious reforms,” Afenyo-Markin stated.

“They said they will reform the energy sector but unfortunately what they have rather done is to be increasing tariffs. So far, they have increased tariffs up to 30%,” he added.

The Minority Leader further criticised the introduction of the GH¢1 fuel levy, popularly referred to by sections of the public as the “dumsor levy,” arguing that ordinary Ghanaians are being made to shoulder additional financial burdens without corresponding improvements in electricity supply and energy sector management.

He questioned the tangible outcomes of government policies in the sector, insisting that consumers are yet to see measurable improvements despite the additional charges imposed.

“If you ask the Energy Minister today, what are the real tangibles, really there is nothing,” he asserted.

Afenyo-Markin also highlighted the long-standing issue of debts owed to Independent Power Producers (IPPs), noting that weak revenue mobilisation within the energy sector continues to place pressure on the national budget.

According to him, failure to improve revenue collection and operational efficiency risks diverting government funds away from critical sectors such as education and healthcare in order to settle energy-related obligations.

He stressed that comprehensive reforms—not just tariff increases—are needed to stabilise the sector, improve service delivery, and reduce financial inefficiencies.

The comments come amid ongoing national debate over rising utility costs, energy sector debt, and the sustainability of Ghana’s power generation and distribution system.

Critics of the recent tariff adjustments argue that households and businesses are already struggling with the high cost of living and should not be subjected to additional financial pressure without clear improvements in service delivery.

Supporters of the government, however, maintain that revenue mobilisation measures are necessary to address legacy debts, sustain electricity generation, and improve the financial health of the sector.

Energy analysts say Ghana’s power sector continues to face major challenges including transmission losses, unpaid debts, fuel supply constraints, and inefficiencies in revenue collection.

They argue that long-term stability will require broader reforms involving infrastructure upgrades, improved management systems, and enhanced accountability across energy institutions.