GUTA Opposes Utility Tariff Hikes, Calls for Transparency and Reform
The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has strongly opposed the latest increase in utility tariffs announced by the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC), arguing that the decision is unjustifiable given the deep-rooted inefficiencies and corruption in the utility sector.
In a statement signed by the General Secretary, Alpha Shaban, and released on April 15, GUTA expressed concern over the impact of the tariff hikes on both domestic and commercial consumers. According to the union, the decision to raise tariffs does not address the real issues facing the sector but instead transfers the burden of mismanagement and waste onto the Ghanaian people.
GUTA pointed to multiple systemic failures within the utilities sector, including inflated procurement processes that benefit a few individuals, poor revenue collection—especially from state institutions—and rampant illegal power connections. The statement also highlighted the lack of effective oversight by the PURC and cited scandals such as the missing Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG) containers as further proof of poor governance and accountability.
As a result, the union is demanding immediate government intervention to recover stolen assets and to institute reforms that will improve service delivery and resource management. GUTA believes that with better oversight and transparency, Ghana’s economy can grow significantly, but this potential is being undermined by persistent corruption and mismanagement.
The union emphasized that these inefficiencies are not just inconveniences but have broader economic consequences. Increased utility costs raise production expenses for industries and agriculture, contributing to inflation and the depreciation of the Ghanaian cedi. GUTA argued that the knock-on effects of such mismanagement ultimately hinder the country’s ability to achieve sustainable development and economic stability.
GUTA’s position is clear: until there is meaningful reform in the utility sector, any increase in tariffs is both unfair and counterproductive. They urged all relevant stakeholders to work together to eliminate waste, fight corruption, and prioritize the needs of consumers over political or personal gains.
In closing, the union called for improved governance across the utility sector, urging the government to take swift action to ensure greater transparency and accountability. GUTA maintains that resolving these long-standing challenges is essential not only for protecting consumers but also for laying a strong foundation for national growth and development.
Their firm stance reflects the growing frustration among Ghanaians over poor public service delivery and the lack of accountability, especially in sectors that are critical to everyday life and economic productivity.
blogpay
Total Comments: 0