President Mahama Ends Free Fuel for Appointees in New Austerity Measure
On July 15, 2025, President John Dramani Mahama announced the immediate cancellation of fuel allowances and allocations for all political appointees, as part of ongoing austerity measures to reduce government expenditure and redirect funds to critical sectors.
The directive, detailed in a statement by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, MP and Spokesperson to the President, reflects Mahama’s call for leadership to share in the sacrifices demanded of Ghanaians amid economic challenges.
“The President believes that leadership must also bear its part of the sacrifices it is calling on the people to make,” the statement read.
This move follows earlier cost-cutting initiatives, including a reduction in the number of Ministers and Presidential Office staff and the discontinuation of satellite TV subscriptions for government offices.
These measures aim to curb unnecessary spending and promote fiscal discipline, addressing Ghana’s economic strain, with public debt at 92.7% of GDP in 2024 (per IMF data) and inflation concerns lingering.
The cancellation affects all political appointees, including ministers, deputies, and other government officials, who previously received fuel benefits as part of their entitlements.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters, including some NDC members, praise it as a step toward fiscal responsibility, aligning with Mahama’s Operation Recover All Loot campaign to combat wasteful expenditure. Critics, however, argue it may strain appointees’ operational efficiency, especially in rural areas with limited transport options.
No specific savings figures were disclosed, but the Presidency emphasized that funds would be channeled to priority areas like infrastructure and social programs
