Ghanaians may soon be paying significantly more for basic public services, as the Minority in Parliament has predicted a rise in government fees and charges—ranging between 30% and 40%.
At a press conference held on Tuesday, July 29, Dr. Gideon Boako, Member of Parliament for Tano North and Deputy Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, sounded the alarm over what he described as an unjustified upward adjustment in the cost of accessing essential government services.
According to the Minority, the adjustments will affect a wide range of sectors, including transportation, healthcare, and immigration.
“We are going to see vehicle registration fees go up, roadworthiness inspection fees go up, driver’s licence renewal fees go up. We are going to see commercial transport permits go up, and the concomitant effect is that transport fares will also go up,” Dr. Boako stated.
In the health sector, the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration and renewal costs are also expected to increase. Additionally, passport acquisition and renewal fees, entry or departure stamp charges, and work and resident permit fees are all projected to rise sharply.
“This adjustment is going to have a direct impact on the average Ghanaian, especially at a time when the cost of living is already unbearable for many,” Dr. Boako warned.
The Minority has expressed concern that these hikes will deepen the economic hardship already faced by ordinary citizens, calling on the government to reconsider the scale and timing of the fee increases.
They argue that while the government seeks to raise revenue through increased service charges, it should balance fiscal measures with the need to protect vulnerable populations from further financial strain.
