Mahama Halts Fuel Allowances for Appointees Amid Economic Strain

In a bold cost-cutting move, President John Dramani Mahama has scrapped fuel allowances for all political appointees, effective immediately. This measure, part of a broader effort to slash public spending, was disclosed in a presidential statement issued Tuesday, July 15, and signed by Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu.

The directive underscores the government’s intent to realign its expenditures toward essential national priorities. “The President believes that leadership must also bear its part of the sacrifices it is calling on the people to make,” the release emphasized, signalling a push for responsible leadership amid economic constraints.

This latest move deepens Mahama’s austerity drive, which has already seen a notable reduction in the size of government, including fewer ministerial and presidential staff appointments. The administration has also cut perks, such as satellite television subscriptions at the Presidency and across state institutions.

The announcement precedes a looming fuel levy of GHS1.00 per litre, set to take effect within 24 hours. Government sources explain that the levy is essential for funding the Ministry of Energy’s procurement of fuel for electricity generation.

“This decision is part of our realignment strategy to prioritize the nation’s pressing needs over comfort,” said a senior government official familiar with the policy.

With public eyes firmly on national spending, the cancellation of fuel allowances sends a clear message — the Mahama administration is ready to lead by example in its economic reform agenda.