The Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has announced that Cabinet has instructed the Ministers of Finance and Energy, Cassiel Ato Forson and John Jinapor, to remove taxes and margins on fuel prices.
The directive is expected to take effect from the next pricing window following an emergency Cabinet meeting held on April 9.
According to the Government Spokesperson, the removal or reduction of certain taxes and margins is intended to bring down fuel prices for an initial period of four weeks, after which the policy will be reviewed and further decisions taken as necessary.
Mr. Ofosu explained that the measure is aimed at cushioning the travelling public against rising fuel costs, which have been influenced in part by global geopolitical tensions, including the US-Israel-Iran conflict.
He noted that despite existing economic buffers, fuel prices have continued to rise, necessitating the intervention.
He further disclosed that the Transport Minister has been directed to fast-track the deployment of 100 newly acquired Metro Mass Transit buses in high-traffic areas to ease commuting challenges. He added that additional batches of 100 buses each are expected in August and November, bringing the total to 300.
Mr. Ofosu also stated that the deployed buses will be required to maintain fares lower than those charged by private operators to provide relief to commuters, particularly during peak hours.
In addition, the President used the Cabinet meeting to reiterate the enforcement of the ban on fuel allowances for ministers and senior government officials, emphasizing strict compliance across government.
