President John Dramani Mahama’s directive to abolish fuel allowances and halt fuel allocations for all political appointees has sparked a range of responses from Members of Parliament, highlighting differing views on the effectiveness of the government’s cost-cutting measures under the Reset Agenda.
While the policy is intended to save public funds and channel resources into priority sectors and development projects, opinions remain divided over its potential impact.
Samuel Awuku, NPP MP for Akuapim North, dismissed the move as largely symbolic, questioning whether it would lead to any substantial fiscal savings. Speaking at Parliament House, he urged the government to be transparent about how much is currently spent on fuel allowances, suggesting that without clear figures, the directive risks being mere political theater.
“If the government is serious, the real change starts with closing fuel depots at places like Osu and Jubilee House, where these allowances are accessed. Otherwise, it’s just playing to the gallery,” Awuku remarked.
Conversely, Samuel Atta-Mills, NDC MP for Komenda Edina Eguafo Abirem, praised the directive as a necessary step toward better public financial management. He expressed optimism that redirecting these funds would support more pressing national needs and contribute to greater fiscal responsibility.
The contrasting views among MPs underscore the challenges the government faces in convincing both lawmakers and the public that its austerity measures are genuine and will translate into meaningful economic benefits.
As the Reset Agenda unfolds, stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether such initiatives result in measurable savings and improved resource allocation.
