Why Ghana’s president is ending fuel benefits for politicians
Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has ordered an immediate end to fuel allowances and fuel allocations for government appointees as part of a wider effort to reduce public spending.
The government says the move is intended to show leadership by example at a time when citizens are being asked to make sacrifices due to ongoing economic challenges.
It is the latest in a series of cost-cutting steps aimed at redirecting public funds toward health, education, and infrastructure.
Presidential spokesperson Felix Kwakye Ofosu said in a statement that the decision fits into a broader plan to ensure fiscal discipline and rebuild public trust in government spending.
“This is part of efforts to streamline governance and ensure that resources are focused on national development priorities,” he was quoted by state media.
The president’s directive follows earlier ones, including a reduction in the number of ministers, tighter travel rules for officials, and a ban on luxury services such as satellite television in public offices.
Just days earlier, the government also announced plans to install prepaid electricity meters in all state offices to cut waste.
Officials say removing fuel perks alone is expected to save millions of cedis each year.
Those savings will now be used to support basic services, especially in communities where access to education and healthcare remains limited.
While some Ghanaians have praised the move as necessary, critics are urging the government to go further by cutting other benefits given to public officeholders.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
