Mahama cancels fuel allowances for all government appointees in a major policy shift.
The President announced the austerity measure during Thursday’s cabinet meeting at Jubilee House.
According to the statement released, this decision means Mahama cancels fuel allowances previously enjoyed by ministers, deputies, and other political office holders.
Officials estimate this will save GH₵18 million monthly from government expenditure.
Finance Minister, Dr Cassiel Ato explained the move aligns with IMF fiscal responsibility requirements. “We must lead by example in these challenging times,” he stated.
Some appointees privately expressed disappointment but pledged compliance.
This could be seen as a sacrifice for national recovery.
Civil society groups praised the decision.
Some even called it “long overdue”.
Opposition leaders questioned the timing. NPP’s Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu asked: “Why wait until election year to implement obvious reforms?”
The policy takes immediate effect. Government vehicles will now use centralized fueling systems with strict monitoring.
Analysts suggest this may precede wider public sector reforms. Similar allowances for civil servants remain unchanged for now.
