GUTA criticizes recent hikes in water and electricity tariffs, citing increased financial burden on Ghanaians
The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has raised concerns over the recent increase in water and electricity tariffs, questioning the rationale behind the decision. The Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) announced a 3.02% rise in electricity tariffs and a 1.86% hike in water tariffs for the third quarter of 2024, set to take effect on October 1. The adjustments were attributed to factors such as exchange rate fluctuations, inflation, and gas prices.
Joseph Paddy, the Public Relations Officer for GUTA, expressed disappointment with the decision, warning that it will further reduce the purchasing power of Ghanaians and worsen the already high cost of living.
“The new tariff is not justifiable. They claim it’s due to rising gas prices, interest rates, and exchange rates. But who caused the exchange rate to increase? This instability is what the fiscal committee has been warning about,” Paddy said.
He stressed that the timing of the tariff hikes adds to the burden on consumers, stating, “Ghanaians are already struggling with the cost of living, and introducing this increase at such a critical moment will make life even more difficult.”
