The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has rejected a proposal by Interior Minister and Member of Parliament for Asawase, Muntaka Mubarak, to introduce a fuel levy aimed at equipping the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS).

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Muntaka Mubarak suggested that a 10-pesewa levy per litre of fuel be dedicated solely to firefighting efforts, following widespread criticism of the government’s response to the recent Adum fire disaster in Kumasi.

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“All of us also need to make a contribution, and the way to do that, in my view, is by dedicating just 10 pesewas per litre of fuel solely for fire,” he stated.

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He further revealed that Ghana's fire service is operating with outdated equipment, noting that the last procurement of new fire tenders was over a decade ago.

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“When I went to the Ministry for Interior, I realised that the newest tender that we have was procured in 2014. That is more than 10 years,” he said.

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However, GPRTU’s Industrial Relations Officer, Abass Imoro, firmly opposed the tax, warning that it would increase the financial burden on transport operators and commuters.

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“We are even expecting a further reduction in fuel prices, which will put us in a better position, but now they want to add 10 pesewas or more per litre? I don’t think any professional driver will welcome that,” he argued. “We plead for a second thought on this.”

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The proposal comes in the wake of a devastating fire at Adum Market’s Blue Light Arena, which raged for two days before being fully extinguished. Affected traders blamed the GNFS for its delayed and ineffective response, claiming that water shortages worsened the situation.

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Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Frank Amoakohene also condemned the GNFS for its handling of the crisis. In a widely circulated video, he was seen scolding officers for their perceived inaction and failure to disclose that some fire tenders lacked water.

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In response, GNFS Public Relations Officer Alex King Nartey defended the service, stating that the real issue was the lack of government investment. He revealed that Ghana has not received a new set of fire tenders in 15 years, despite international standards recommending a replacement cycle every five years.

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Prior to becoming substantive Minister of Interior, Muntaka Mubarak promised to prioritize retooling the GNFS as part of President John Dramani Mahama's vision for national security. He cited the government's manifesto, which outlines plans to provide modern equipment for the GNFS to enhance their operational capabilities.

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"By the grace of God, together with His Excellency, we will ensure that the Ghana National Fire Service is retooled to meet the needs of the country. This is clearly stated in our manifesto on page 186. They need the necessary tools to protect us when the need arises," he said.

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Meanwhile, Local Government Minister Ahmed Ibrahim has proposed a separate Sanitation Fund and Levy to tackle Ghana’s worsening waste management crisis, arguing that a dedicated tax would help improve sanitation services nationwide.

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