President John Dramani Mahama has ordered immediate steps to lessen the burden of increasing fuel prices on Ghanaians after an emergency Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, April 9, following his return from an official visit to France.
The meeting focused on the sharp rise in fuel costs caused by global supply disruptions connected to tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States. A major factor behind the increase is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, an essential international oil shipping channel, which has affected supply and pushed petroleum prices upward worldwide.
As part of the government’s response, the President directed the Minister for Finance, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, together with the Minister for Energy, John Jinapor, to begin consultations with stakeholders in the energy sector on removing selected taxes and levies placed on petroleum products. These changes are expected to begin in the next fuel pricing window.
The planned intervention will remain in place for an initial four-week period, after which the situation will be reassessed and further decisions made depending on developments.
To reduce transport costs for the public, the Minister for Transport has also been instructed to fast-track the rollout of about 100 Metro Mass Transit buses. In addition, fares on these buses are to be lowered to make transportation more affordable for commuters.
President Mahama also reminded ministers and top government officials to fully comply with the existing suspension of fuel allowances, describing it as part of broader efforts to cut public spending during this period.
These measures are part of a wider government strategy aimed at reducing the effect of rising fuel prices on households and businesses across the country.
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