President Mahama Scraps Fuel Allowances for Political Appointees

Jul 15, 2025 - 12:31

President John Dramani Mahama

Accra, Ghana - 15 July, 2025 - Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama has announced the immediate cancellation of fuel allowances for all political appointees, a move aimed at reducing government expenditure amid ongoing economic challenges.

The directive, effective from Tuesday, 15 July 2025, was confirmed in a statement by Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Minister for Government Communications and presidential spokesperson.

The decision is part of a broader strategy by the Mahama administration to streamline public spending and redirect funds to critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, and agriculture.

The presidency emphasized that the measure reflects the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, with leaders expected to share in the sacrifices being asked of the public.

This is not the first austerity measure implemented since Mahama’s return to office in January 2025, following his victory in the December 2024 election.

His administration has already reduced the number of ministers and presidential staff, banned first-class travel for government officials, and discontinued satellite TV subscriptions for state offices. These steps are seen as a response to Ghana’s economic difficulties, including high inflation and a debt restructuring process following a default in recent years.

Mahama, who previously served as president from 2012 to 2017, campaigned on a promise to “reset” Ghana’s economy, which has faced significant strain due to global commodity price fluctuations and domestic fiscal challenges.

The cancellation of fuel allowances is expected to free up resources for priority areas, though the presidency has not specified the exact amount of savings anticipated.

Read the statement from the Presidency below;