Minority Leader Alexander Afenyo-Markin has cautioned the government against any increases in fuel prices resulting from tensions in the Middle East.
Speaking on the floor of Parliament, he emphasised that such hikes would be unjustified given the government’s earlier assurances about having adequate fuel buffers to shield the country from external shocks.
Afenyo-Markin argued that, since the government has already stated that Ghana possesses sufficient buffers, he expects to see evidence of this and does not want to witness increases in fuel prices during this period.
“The president said the happenings in Iran will affect Ghana; since when did you change your mind? He stated that he has instructed the energy and finance ministers to monitor the situation for potential adjustments,” he remarked.
The minority leader highlighted the inconsistency in the government’s stance, recalling that when the Ukraine-Russia conflict commenced, President Mahama maintained that it would not impact Ghana.
“Because in Akufo-Addo’s era you said Ukraine-Russia should not have any effect; you said it is 7,000 kilometres away and the bombs are not being thrown in Ghana,” he stated.
Afenyo-Markin called for subsidies, stressing that the government must be held accountable for its previous claims regarding the resilience of Ghana’s fuel supply.
Source: Vanessa Elizabeth Nkum
