The Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) has raised concerns about the recent hike in water and electricity tariffs, questioning the rationale behind the increase and warning that it will further erode consumers’ purchasing power.
On Saturday, September 28, the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) announced a 3.02% rise in electricity tariffs and a 1.86% increase in water tariffs for the third quarter of 2024, effective from October 1. The commission attributed the adjustment to factors such as fluctuations in the exchange rate, inflation, and gas prices.
Joseph Paddy, Public Relations Officer for GUTA, expressed frustration over the decision, stating that it will exacerbate the already challenging living conditions for Ghanaians.
“The new tariffs are not justifiable. The increase is linked to rising gas prices, interest rates, and exchange rate instability. But who is responsible for the exchange rate going up? This is exactly what the fiscal committee has been warning about – instability in the system.
“They need to reconsider this decision, or it will make life much harder for Ghanaians. The cost of living is already very high, and this increase at such a critical time will only worsen the situation. Even the timing is problematic.”
Source: Adomonline.com
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