An Open Letter To President Mahama On The Struggles Ghanaians Face Due To Electricity Tariff Hikes

His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama,

We are reliably informed that you will soon convene an emergency cabinet session to address the ongoing issues within the cocoa sector. While this is commendable, I wish to draw your urgent attention to another matter that affects every Ghanaian household and business across the country: the relentless increases in electricity tariffs.

During your time in opposition, you assured Ghanaians that a future NDC government—anchored on the 24‑hour economy vision—would deliver affordable and cheaper electricity. This promise resonated deeply with citizens who were struggling under rising living costs.

However, since assuming office as Commander‑in‑Chief in May 2025, electricity tariffs have risen sharply. The first increment of 14.75% in May 2025 was followed by another 2.45% in July, and an additional 1.14% in October. In total, electricity tariffs increased by 18.34% in 2025.

During that same period, the public sector base pay increased by only 10%.

This imbalance has placed significant strain on Ghanaian workers, whose salaries cannot keep pace with the rising cost of electricity—a basic necessity for modern living.

Unfortunately, the trend has continued into 2026. In January, Ghanaians were greeted with a 9.8% tariff increase as a “New Year gift,” while the base pay for 2026 rose by just 9%. Once again, the cost of electricity has outstripped salary adjustments, worsening the financial burden on ordinary citizens.

Mr President, where does this leave your promise of cheaper electricity for households and businesses? How do these continuous hikes align with the commitment you made to ease the economic pressures on the very people who entrusted you with leadership?

The cumulative effect of these increases is not merely a statistical concern—it is a daily struggle for families, traders, students, and small businesses. Many are being forced to choose between essential needs because electricity has become increasingly unaffordable.

In light of this, I respectfully urge you to convene an emergency cabinet session to address what has become a national crisis. The current tariff trajectory is unsustainable and threatens to erode public confidence in the promise of a more affordable energy future.

Ghanaians are waiting—eagerly and anxiously—for the fulfillment of your commitment to deliver cheaper electricity and relief to households and businesses across the country.

Shalom.
Abdulai Abdul‑Razak
Tamale South Constituency
[email protected]
0542184296