Accra, Ghana – John Abdulai Jinapor, the Member of Parliament for Yapei-Kusawgu and a prominent member of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has clarified that the NDC is unlikely to reduce fuel prices if they come to power. This statement was made during an interactive session on Adom TV’s Badwam show on July 12, 2024.
Reality of Fuel Price Management
Addressing the widespread belief among Ghanaians that the NDC would lower fuel prices if elected, Jinapor stressed the practical difficulties involved. “There are two fundamental issues about petroleum prices. If you cannot reduce it, don’t let it go up too much, that’s the first thing we should look at,” he explained. He added, “If you reduce the price, you have to provision for it in the budget. I will not tell you that because we want to win power, I should lie to you that if we come we shall reduce fuel prices, no, that will not happen.”
Economic Balancing Act
Jinapor emphasized the need for a balanced approach to managing the economy. “We have to be realistic because we need to pay hospitals, we have to build roads and schools. When you are managing an economy, you have to balance it,” he noted in response to a question posed by a taxi driver during the program.
NDC’s Stance on Current Fuel Prices
The NDC has been vocal in criticizing the Akufo-Addo administration for recent increases in fuel prices. Samuel Gyamfi, the party’s Communications Officer, has frequently used social media to compare petroleum product prices during the Mahama administration with those under the current government. Many NDC communicators have urged Ghanaians to vote out the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) in favor of the NDC, promising a better economic situation.
Jinapor’s Confirmation
Despite these criticisms, Jinapor’s statements on the Badwam show indicate a more cautious approach. He confirmed that while the NDC aims to manage fuel prices responsibly, a significant reduction is not a realistic promise. “The NDC, should they win power, will not reduce fuel prices, neither will fuel prices remain static,” he concluded.
The NDC’s position highlights the complexities of managing fuel prices within the broader context of national economic priorities, underscoring the challenges any future administration will face in balancing fiscal responsibility with public expectations.
