The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu has disclosed that Cabinet has directed the Finance and Energy ministers, Cassiel Ato Forson and John Jinapor to remove taxes and margins on fuel prices.Remove ads
This is to take effect from the next pricing window.
The Government Spokesperson made this known after an emergency Cabinet meeting on April 9.
“The Finance and Energy Ministers have been tasked to remove taxes and margins on petroleum prices in the next pricing window,” he said.
Mr Ofosu explained that, “The reduction or removal of some taxes and margins, as I’ve indicated, which should lead to a reduction in fuel prices effective, the next pricing window is supposed to last for an initial period of four weeks from the next pricing window. After the four weeks, the situation will be reviewed and as and when it is deemed necessary, appropriate actions will be taken.”
He further explained that these measures are meant to cushion the traveling public from the effects of increasing fuel prices due to the US-Israel-Iran war.Remove ads
Mr Ofosu said this became necessary because despite the cushioning effect of the economic gains, there is still fuel price increase.
He also mentioned that the Transport Minister is to expedite the deployment of the newly imported 100 buses in high traffic areas.
“You recall that over the weekend, I announced the arrival of 100 Metro mass busses. Another batch of 100 buses are expected in August, and then the last batch of 100 are expected in November to make up 300. Currently, we have 100 available and the Transport Minister has been instructed by cabinet to ensure expedited deployment of these busses in high traffic corridors, to ensure that it alleviates any difficulties that may have arisen out of the fuel price increases,” Mr Kwakye Ofosu said.
He added that, “the Transport Minister is also being charged with ensuring that these Metro mass busses, in addition to the existing ones, charge or maintain transport fares which are lower than what private sector operators charge. This is to ensure that Ghanaians are cushioned, especially when we reach peak periods at the rush hour.”
“In addition to this, the President took the opportunity at the Cabinet meeting to remind all ministers and senior government officials and appointees to adhere strictly to his ban on fuel allowances and allocation of fuel. This applies to all ministers and senior government officials,” the Government Spokesperson stated.
