Mahama Enforces Fuel Coupon Ban for Ministers as Cabinet Moves to Slash Fuel Taxes
President John Dramani Mahama has reinforced a strict ban on fuel coupons and allowances for ministers and senior government officials, as part of broader measures to address rising fuel prices and demonstrate fiscal discipline.
The directive was announced following a high-level Cabinet meeting held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, to assess the impact of global fuel price increases on Ghana’s economy.
At an emergency press briefing, the Minister of State in charge of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, stated that the President has made it clear that the use of state-funded fuel for personal benefit by government appointees is no longer acceptable.
“The President took the opportunity to remind all ministers and senior government officials to adhere strictly to his ban on fuel allowances and the allocation of fuel,” he said, stressing that compliance with the directive is immediate and mandatory.
The move is seen as part of efforts to lead by example at a time when Ghanaians are grappling with increasing fuel costs.
In addition to the cost-cutting directive, Cabinet has instructed the Ministers of Finance and Energy to take urgent steps to reduce fuel prices by removing certain taxes and margins on petroleum products.
According to Mr. Kwakye Ofosu, the intervention is expected to take effect within the next pricing window—approximately one week—and will initially run for about four weeks, subject to review.
The measure is aimed at cushioning consumers and preventing further increases in transport fares and the cost of living.
Government attributes the recent surge in fuel prices to external pressures, particularly geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting global oil supply routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
These disruptions have led to higher crude oil prices, increased insurance premiums, and rising shipping costs, which are ultimately reflected at the pumps.
Despite Ghana’s improving economic indicators—including easing inflation and a relatively stable cedi—officials say the external shocks necessitated urgent intervention.
As part of a broader response, Cabinet has also directed the Ministry of Transport Ghana to fast-track the deployment of newly acquired Metro Mass Transit buses.
An initial batch of 100 buses is expected to be deployed on high-traffic routes to provide more affordable transport options, with additional buses scheduled for delivery later in the year.
Authorities say fares on these state-run buses will be kept lower than those charged by private operators to help ease the burden on commuters.
Government maintains that the combined measures—including the enforcement of the fuel coupon ban, tax reductions, and expanded public transport—are designed to protect citizens from the ripple effects of rising fuel costs.
Officials say the situation will be closely monitored, with further interventions possible depending on developments in global oil markets.
Story by: Philip Kendriz Elikem
