Abraham Koomson, the Secretary General of the Ghana Federation of Labour (GFL), expressed concerns about a new law intended to control cement prices in Ghana.
He believes this Legislative Instrument (L.I) could harm businesses if not handled carefully.
According to Koomson, high cement prices and other expensive goods are signs of deeper economic problems.
In an interview on Ahotor FM’s Yepe Ahunu with host Nana Dobge, Mr. Koomson stated, “These issues indicate serious structural problems in our economy, and those in power seem clueless about fixing them.”
He suggested that the Ministry of Trade should seek cheaper prices through thorough consultations rather than relying solely on regulations.
Mr. Koomson called for Trade and Industry Minister KT Hammond and cement producers to meet and discuss their concerns about the L.I. This comes after Minister Hammond dismissed a petition from the Chamber of Cement Manufacturers to delay the law’s implementation.
He argued that the legislation is necessary to prevent manufacturers from forming a price-fixing cartel.
Under this proposed law, cement producers could face imprisonment for up to three years if found guilty of violating price regulations.
The Secretary General of GFL cautioned that such strict measures could have negative effects on the economy.
LISTEN TO ABRAHAM KOOMSON IN THIS AUDIO:
Moreover, Mr. Koomson criticized President Akufo-Addo for his handling of a meeting with Organised Labour representatives regarding the sale of SSNIT hotels.
He accused the President of being disrespectful towards labour leaders who requested a forensic investigation into the sale of these hotels to Agriculture Minister Bryan Acheampong.
Before the meeting, Organised Labour had hoped the President would cancel the sale agreement.
However, according to Mr. Koomson, President Akufo-Addo responded angrily, dismissing their concerns.
LISTEN TO ABRAHAM KOOMSON AGAIN IN THIS AUDIO:
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh(#RomeoWrites) / Ahotoronline.com
