The Automobile Dealers Union of Ghana (ADUG) has demanded the immediate removal of the minister for trade and industry, Mrs Ofosu-Adjare, citing what they describe as “gross incompetence”.
The union contends that the minister has failed to fulfil her duties and is calling on the president to relieve her of her post.
According to National President Mr Eric Kwaku Boateng, there is a rising influx of foreign nationals—particularly Chinese traders—who are taking over the importation and sale of used vehicles. He emphasised that this sector is traditionally the preserve of Ghanaian traders.
Speaking on the programme As It Is in Ghana on Rainbow Radio (87.5FM Ghana and 92.4FM UK), Mr Boateng stated that while the union has petitioned authorities for action, no positive results have been achieved.
He warned that if the government fails to intervene, local Ghanaian-owned garages will be crippled.
Mr Boateng further alleged that the vehicles being imported by these foreign traders are of inferior quality. He noted that by law, foreigners are permitted to assemble vehicles within Ghana but are restricted from importing and selling second-hand cars to the public.
“They are allowed to only assemble brand-new vehicles in Ghana and not to import second-hand cars to Ghana. The second-hand vehicles they import are of a low standard compared to the ones we sell. We sell high-standard and luxury brands, but these Chinese traders import low-standard vehicles. The trade minister should be aware of this, but she has refused to act.”
“The minister is aware, and she has refused to act, and so she is not qualified to serve as minister.” The minister should also be replaced because she is not accessible and is not helping the second-hand car market. Her approach to managing the trade sector is creating problems, and we have sent letters to the President requesting a change in leadership.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
