The former Deputy Minister for Energy and Member of Parliament for Afigya Kwabre North, Collins Adomako-Mensah, has taken a swipe at the government over its recent decision to increase electricity and water tariffs, describing the move as a betrayal of campaign promises.
His criticism follows the announcement by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) of a new round of tariff hikes, effective May 3, 2025. As part of its routine quarterly adjustments, PURC revealed that electricity tariffs would rise by 14.75% on average, while water tariffs would see a 4.02% increase.
Speaking in an interview on Channel One TV, Mr. Adomako-Mensah expressed disappointment and surprise at the timing and magnitude of the increases, especially in light of assurances given by top government officials during the 2024 election campaign.
“I’m a little bit surprised about the announcement because of the rhetoric prior to the 2024 election,” he said. “If you recall, this issue became topical when political figures made pronouncements to the effect that they would try as much as possible to reduce electricity tariffs, especially with the 24-hour economy mantra.”
He specifically referenced campaign promises made by President John Dramani Mahama and National Democratic Congress (NDC) Chairman Johnson Asiedu Nketia, who he said had pledged tariff reductions to support businesses that operate under the 24-hour economy model.
“That is where the surprise is coming from,” Adomako-Mensah added, questioning the government’s commitment to fulfilling its economic transformation agenda.
Nonetheless, the former minister acknowledged the financial constraints faced by the PURC, particularly the exchange rate pressures stemming from the purchase of power in U.S. dollars while selling in the local currency, the Ghana cedi.
