President John Dramani Mahama, in a statement issued by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, presidential spokesman and Minister in-charge of Government Communications, has, with immediate effect, directed the cancellation of payment of fuel allowances and allocation of fuel to all his political appointees.

The statement indicated that the directive formed part of a broader curb in the government's expenditure aimed at cutting costs and channelling public funds into priority areas.

Dr Mensah described the move as a positive step toward reducing the financial burden on the state and promoting accountability in the use of public resources.

Dr Mensah, reacting to the directive, told the Ghana News Agency (GNA) that the fuel allowances given to some political officeholders had, over the years, contributed to excessive government spending, adding that many appointees did not use the allowances for their intended purposes, leading to waste and inefficiency.

He said the move showed a level of commitment to reducing public debt and improving the ways state resources were being managed to reduce misuse, explaining that in the context of the country's current economic challenges, bold steps such as these were necessary to restore fiscal discipline.

The economist said the removal of fuel allowances should be seen not only as a cost-cutting measure, but also as part of a broader reform agenda to promote equity and responsibility within the public sector.

He noted that while political appointees enjoy several privileges, most ordinary government workers struggle to meet basic needs.
He therefore called for a comprehensive review of the salary structure for all government workers, including those covered under Article 71 of the 1992 Constitution, which provided special conditions of service for some selected public officials.
He emphasized the need for fairness and sustainability in how the state remunerates its employees and called for a broader review of the public sector salary structure to ensure that all persons who keep the state running were also well compensated.