President John Dramani Mahama has directed a series of urgent interventions aimed at cushioning Ghanaians from the impact of rising fuel prices, following global supply disruptions linked to tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The decisions were reached during an emergency Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, April 9, shortly after the President returned from an official visit to France.
The Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, announced the directives at a press briefing after the Cabinet meeting. As part of the measures, the Finance and Energy Ministers have been tasked to immediately reduce fuel prices by removing certain taxes and margins. The directive is expected to take effect from the next pricing window, which is about a week away.
“The finance and energy ministers should take immediate steps to reduce the price of fuel through the removal of some taxes and margins effective the next pricing window.”
The reduction is expected to last for an initial period of four weeks, after which the situation will be reviewed.
In addition, the Transport Minister has been instructed to fast-track the deployment of newly acquired MetroMass buses to ease transportation challenges and reduce the burden on commuters.
“The transport minister has been instructed to ensure expedited deployment of these buses in high traffic corridors to alleviate any difficulties,” Hon Ofosu explained.
A total of 300 buses are expected to be rolled out in phases, with 100 already in the country, another 100 anticipated in August, and the final batch arriving in November.
The government has also directed that MetroMass buses maintain lower fares compared to private transport operators to provide relief, especially during peak hours.
“These MetroMass buses must charge fares lower than what private sector operators charge,” he emphasised.
Meanwhile, President Mahama used the meeting to reiterate his directive banning fuel allowances for ministers and senior government officials, stressing strict compliance.
“All ministers and senior government officials must adhere strictly to the ban on fuel allowances,” he cautioned.
