Accra: Former Member of Parliament for Dormaa East and a Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court, Paul Twum-Barimah, has challenged assertions by the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, concerning the causes of rising petroleum prices in Ghana. Twum-Barimah has urged for a more balanced and fact-based national conversation on the matter. According to Ghana Web, Kwakye Ofosu claimed that petroleum product prices reached their highest levels under the previous New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration due to economic mismanagement that predated the Russia-Ukraine War. He contrasted this period with the current government's handling of the Middle East conflict. In response to these remarks, Twum-Barimah addressed the issue in a Facebook post, stating, "Felix, my brother, indeed these are interesting times." Twum-Barimah argued that the minister's position oversimplifies a complex global issue. He stated that it is misleading to suggest that the surge in petroleum prices was solely th e result of domestic mismanagement prior to the Russia-Ukraine war. He emphasized that global crude oil prices were already volatile due to post-COVID supply chain disruptions, and the war only amplified an existing global crisis affecting all economies, not just Ghana. The former lawmaker further defended the record of the previous administration, noting that it operated under significant external constraints. He highlighted that under the NPP administration, the country faced unprecedented external shocks yet implemented policies to stabilize the economy, maintain fuel supply, and cushion consumers through interventions like targeted subsidies and exchange rate management. Twum-Barimah stressed that any credible analysis of petroleum pricing must consider global market realities rather than focusing narrowly on domestic governance. He stated, "If we are to have an honest conversation, we must acknowledge that fuel price dynamics are largely driven by international market forces, forex pressures, and globa l geopolitical tensions not just local governance." He further called for a shift in tone and substance in public discourse on the matter, urging, "Let's elevate the discussion beyond politics and focus on sustainable solutions for Ghana's energy future."
- April 25, 2026
