The Minority in Parliament has issued a stark warning that Ghanaians could soon face sharp increases in the cost of essential public services, projecting hikes of between 30 and 40 per cent under the government’s revised fee structure.
Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, 29 July, Member of Parliament for Tano North and Deputy Ranking Member on Parliament’s Finance Committee, Dr Gideon Boako, cautioned that the impending adjustments will further deepen the economic hardship being experienced by ordinary citizens.
According to Dr Boako, the new fee regime will affect a wide range of everyday services including transportation, passport issuance and renewal, and driving licence processing.
“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,” he stated.
The Minority also pointed to likely increases in the health and immigration sectors, highlighting that National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registration and renewal premiums will rise. Additionally, fees for immigration services such as entry or departure stamps, certificates of citizenship, and work and residence permits are expected to increase significantly.
“The entry or departure stamp and certificate of citizenship fees will go up. Work and resident permit fees will also increase between 30 per cent and 40 per cent,” Dr Boako added.
The Minority urged the government to reconsider the revised fee structure, arguing that the cumulative effect of these increases would erode disposable incomes and impose further strain on already burdened households.
The government is yet to officially respond to the concerns raised.
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