Due to the police declining to provide protection for the demonstrators, the Ghana Hotels Association has temporarily postponed its planned protest aimed at addressing the issue of high utility tariffs.
Originally, the intention of the Ghana Hotels Association was to organize a march through the streets of Accra, using it as a platform to voice their concerns over the excessively elevated utility tariffs.
Their primary goal was to draw attention to the sharp rise in utility costs and express their grievances to the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC).
The catalyst for the Association’s protest was a substantial 167% increase in water tariffs that took effect in February 2023, placing a significant financial burden on hotels across the region.
Despite their efforts to engage with the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission and advocate for a reconsideration of the tariff adjustments, they have yet to see any concrete results.
The Association has indicated its commitment to continuing negotiations with the police in hopes of finding a resolution. They clarified that their aim was to seek a revision of utility tariffs rather than resort to violent measures.
In case the police’s protection remains unavailable, the Association noted that its members would explore alternative avenues.
Dr. Edward Ackah-Nyamike, the President of the Ghana Hotels Association, addressed the press, explaining, “Our primary concern lies with the tariff adjustment implemented in February, which led to increased debts for hotels. Our main focus is to revert this adjustment to its previous state.
Once that is addressed, the subsequent 8.3% adjustment can be discussed. The issue we are addressing does not solely pertain to the new rates set to begin on the 1st; however, this aspect also highlights the problem of high rates. Thus, there’s a concern either way.”
Source – citinewsroom.com
