NPP’s Ahiagbah Criticizes Power Tariff Hike Amid Persistent Dumsor

New Patriotic Party (NPP) Communications Director Richard Ahiagbah has condemned recent electricity tariff increases amid ongoing power instability, accusing the government of charging Ghanaians more for unreliable service.

In a social media post, Ahiagbah stated, “We now pay 14.75% more for electricity than under Akufo-Addo, but the power isn’t reliable. We are paying more for dumsor [power outages]. Why, Mr. President?”

Energy Minister John Jinapor acknowledged concerns over Ghana’s critically low fuel reserves—currently at 2.6 days’ supply—but assured the public of mitigation efforts. “The Ministry of Finance has procured 450,000 barrels of light crude oil arriving this weekend,” he said during a Citi FM interview. “We will avert any crisis.”

The tariff hike, implemented despite frequent outages, has sparked public frustration, with critics arguing it exacerbates economic strain on households and businesses. Ghana’s history of dumsor dates back to 2012, with recurring cycles of fuel shortages and infrastructure challenges disrupting daily life and economic productivity.

Analysts highlight the dilemma facing policymakers: balancing fiscal reforms to stabilize the energy sector against public demand for affordable, consistent electricity. The situation underscores broader tensions over utility governance and resource allocation in Ghana’s evolving energy landscape.