The Member of Parliament for Akuapem North, Sammi Awuku, has criticised the government's decision to scrap fuel allowances and allocations for all political appointees, describing it as a populist move and a mere public relations gimmick.

Speaking on the floor of Parliament on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, he challenged the government to take decisive and meaningful action if it is truly committed to the directive.

“If the President really wants to show commitment to cutting down on fuel allowances, I challenge him to shut down the fuel depots at the Castle and Jubilee House. That would mean they are no longer taking fuel for free,” he said.

Awuku also expressed concern over the lack of clarity surrounding the directive.

“Does it include ministers? Does it include CEOs? Does it include presidential staffers? Who exactly are considered political appointees? Are we just talking about ministers and their deputies, or does it cover CEOs as well?” he queried.

He demanded transparency regarding the financial implications of the policy.

“Does this mean fuel for any political appointee is completely scrapped? Are they saying the money used to provide fuel will be refunded, or that appointees will now have to pay for it themselves? We need clarity. Furthermore, how much is currently being spent on fuel allowances, and how much will be saved through this policy? These are serious questions that deserve answers.”

He continued, “If the Minister of Communications drives from here to Ada or Ningo-Prampram on government business, will the fuel used for that trip, made in a state-owned vehicle, be reimbursed, or are we saying there won’t be any fuel support at all?”

Awuku concluded, “I just see this as populist. It’s a public gimmick and clearly a case of PR spin. That’s how I see it.”

President Mahama has directed the immediate cancellation of fuel allowances and fuel allocations for all political appointees, as part of broader measures to reduce government expenditure.

The move is aimed at redirecting public funds to priority areas, while demonstrating that national leadership is willing to share in the sacrifices being demanded of citizens.

“The President believes that leadership must also bear its share of the sacrifices it is calling on the people to make,” a statement signed by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister in Charge of Government Communications, said.

JKB/MA

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