President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the immediate cancellation of fuel allowances and the allocation of fuel to all political appointees, as part of a broader strategy to reduce government spending.
The directive, announced by the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, is aimed at cutting costs and redirecting public funds toward key national priorities. President Mahama emphasized the need for leadership to set the tone for national sacrifice.
“Leadership must also bear its part of the sacrifices it is calling on the people to make,” the President stated.
This latest move follows a series of austerity measures, including the reduction in the number of ministers and presidential staff, as well as halting satellite television subscriptions at the Presidency and other government institutions. The current administration has adopted a leaner government structure, with only 60 ministers, compared to 85 and 120 under the preceding administration.
“We are committed to prudent and disciplined governance. Ghanaians are tightening their belts, and so must government. It starts with us.” the statement read.
The Presidency believes the cumulative impact of these cuts will free up more resources for essential sectors which may include education, health, and infrastructure. It further indicated that the government has taken austere measures such as ending the payment of DSTV subscription for offices at the presidency and government appointees
This move fulfills a campaign promise President Mahama made during the 2024 elections, when he ran as the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). Speaking at the time during an interaction with the European Union Ambassador to Ghana, he outlined cost-saving reforms his administration would pursue to cut down on government expenditure.
“We will discontinue the payment of utility bills, fuel, and DSTV as conditions of service for top government officials, directors, and the political class. We believe that people should take responsibility for paying their own electricity and water bills, just like every other Ghanaian does.” he stated
He further emphasized that only official assignments would warrant government-sponsored fuel.“Unless you are using a government vehicle on government assignment, you should buy your own fuel if you are using your personal car. We are going to discontinue these provisions,” he added.