There was no need to suspend the collection of road tolls – Minority condemns government

The Minority in Parliament has strongly criticized the government's decision to reintroduce road tolls, calling the move misguided and indicative of poor governance.

The Ministry of Roads and Highways recently announced that it has begun consultations with key stakeholders to finalize the reinstatement of road tolls.

This measure aims to fund repairs for the country's deteriorating roads.

Speaking to journalists in Accra on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, Minority Chief Whip, Governs Agbodza condemned the decision, arguing that it highlights a lack of seriousness and proper governance within the current administration.

"That is quite an interesting position by the current road minister. In fact, isn't it the case that he was part of the cabinet when the decision was taken to suspend the collection of tolls? And when Mr. Speaker and all of us drew attention to the fact that that singular action was illegal, they told Mr. Speaker to go to the toll booth to collect the toll himself if he likes."

"This is just a testament to a government that is wayward, has lost touch, and doesn't know what it wants," Mr. Agbodza asserted.

He further accused the government of using the suspension of road tolls as a propaganda tool to push the E-levy onto Ghanaians.

"Cabinet decided to suspend the collection of tolls as propaganda to foist the E-levy down the throats of Ghanaians. We are paying the E-levy today. They want to take more money from you, so they are coming back to condemn each other to say that they want to collect tolls."

"Then the entire government is condemned. They cannot pick and choose who is upright in the government," he intimated.

Mr. Agbodza reiterated the Minority's consistent stance against suspending road tolls, suggesting it was unnecessary and poorly thought out.

"So, we wait. We have been consistently saying that there was no need to suspend the collection of tolls. So, Ghanaians can see which part of the political divide can be trusted and is consistent with policies in this country.

"Obviously, the NPP's record of being straight and fair to Ghanaians has been called into question so many times," he stated.