The Food and Beverages Association of Ghana (FABAG) has formally opposed the recently announced adjustment in electricity and water tariffs by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC).
The Association has described the increments as insensitive, unacceptable, and detrimental to the business sector.
The Chairman of FABAG John Awumi,asserted that current utility tariffs in Ghana are already excessively high compared to other countries in Africa and Europe.
He outlined the Association’s core argument: “Already, the electricity tariff is high in Ghana. If you compare the tariff in Ghana to that of other countries in West Africa, Africa, and Europe, our tariff is extremely high. Industrial and domestic tariffs are very high, and that is why we have opposed this new tariffs. Our argument is that we need preferential tariffs for the business sector.”
The President also strongly criticized the operational efficiency of the Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG), accusing the utility provider of mismanagement. He specifically cited that the ECG records technical losses of 32 percent, while the revenue from power sold is further depreciated by 43 percent.
He argued vehemently that the financial implications of ECG’s alleged incompetence should not be transferred to consumers through increased tariffs.
Speaking in an interview on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, the President demanded that the government withdraw the increment, stating there is no justifiable basis for the adjustment.
“This is purely disgusting and nonsensical. President Mahama promised to reset the country, but I want to state categorically that tariff increment is not a ‘reset.’ This is insensitive, unacceptable, and unfriendly for the business community. We want it withdrawn. Resetting, in my opinion, should provide Ghanaians better services, efficiency, and value for money.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
