MPs abandon Parliament due to fuel shortage

Some members of Parliament have allegedly abandoned parliamentary duties due to the fuel shortage that has hit Accra and many towns across the country.

The 275-member legislative chamber was a pale shadow of itself after barely 60 MPs showed up for business on Thursday.

Minority Finance Spokesperson, Dr Anthony Akoto Osei, attributed the low attendance to the frantic search for fuel. Minority Leader Osei Kyei Mensah Bonsu corroborated the explanation with a personal story of his search for fuel.

Taxis, motorbikes and gallons have been lined up at filling stations this week since the Bulk Oil Distribution Companies warned of a looming fuel crisis if government did not pay them over GH₵1billion in arrears. Government has disputed the amount and insisted the debt was GH₵304 million.

The President John Mahama has directed the Finance Minister, Seth Terkper to release US $60 million to the Distribution Companies.

Source: myjoyonline.com