In a sweeping effort to cut down on government spending, President John Dramani Mahama has ordered the immediate cancellation of all fuel allowances and fuel allocations for political appointees.

The directive, issued on Tuesday from the Office of the President, forms part of a broader austerity agenda aimed at realigning public spending with national development priorities.

Announcing the move, Minister for Government Communications Mr. Felix Kwakye Ofosu emphasised the need for leadership to reflect the sacrifices being asked of ordinary Ghanaians.

“This is a time for leadership by example,” he stated. “If we are asking citizens to make sacrifices for the good of the country, it is only fair that those in leadership do the same.”

The cancellation of fuel benefits is expected to significantly reduce recurring operational costs, which have drawn public criticism over the years for being wasteful and unsustainable.

This latest measure adds to a growing list of cost-cutting initiatives under President Mahama’s administration. Already, the President has trimmed the size of government by reducing ministerial appointments and limiting staffing at the Presidency.

The government has also discontinued satellite TV subscriptions at the Presidency and across government institutions—moves described by the administration as both symbolic and practical steps to promote fiscal discipline.