We can't allow unpatriotic people to inflict hardship on Ghanaians — Prof Gyampo backs cement L.I

The government's move to regulate rising cement prices through legislation has received backing from Prof. Ransford Gyampo.

Speaking via TV3 on Saturday, June 29, on the proposed price control measure, Prof Gyampo said "We can’t allow unpatriotic people to continue that bogus claim of ‘are you not in Ghana’ to be inflicting hardships on Ghanaians."

The political science lecturer criticized cement companies for hiding "behind the difficulty of the current situation to unnecessarily look for profit."

While acknowledging current economic challenges may impact costs, Prof Gyampo said manufacturers should not excessively hike rates without concern for consumers.

According to Gyampo, "If the Cedi is depreciating and it must have an impact on the prices so be it but they should not hide behind the Cedi fall and hike prices."

He argued for a mechanism to curb allegedly "unpatriotic" actors from charging unregulated high costs that strain the public.

The L.I:
The proposed Legislative Instrument (L.I.) by Trade Minister K.T Hammond would make manufacturers of cement products liable to up to three years in jail if they violate certain provisions.

The L.I. establishes a price ceiling, referred to as the maximum allowable retail price, above which no manufacturer can sell a bag of cement.

It also outlines specific penalties for noncompliance, specifying that manufacturers would face jail time for flouting the regulations.