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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President and flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party (NPP), has called for the reimplementation of a comprehensive road toll system to finance the improvement of the country’s road infrastructure.
In 2022, Ghana eliminated road tolls to alleviate traffic congestion on major routes. However, during a tour of the Volta Region, the Vice President highlighted that reintroducing a more extensive tolling system could generate the necessary funds for infrastructure development.
Addressing the concerns of citizens regarding poor road conditions at a meeting with the clergy in the Volta Region, Dr. Bawumia emphasized the Government’s financial constraints in undertaking infrastructure projects. He proposed that innovative solutions, such as road tolls, could provide a viable funding mechanism.
Dr. Bawumia suggested that the Government’s current approach to road financing needs reevaluation and advocated for private sector involvement to supplement toll revenue, thus ensuring adequate infrastructure development.
“We need to revert to a broad-based road toll system. The tolling system must be reinstated, and I believe it will be reinstated,” he stated. “It was a fundamental error for the Government to rely solely on the budget for road projects. The government lacks sufficient funds, and the private sector must be involved.”
He further explained that the private sector could offer lease payment options to help fund the necessary infrastructure, similar to their role in advancing the nation’s digital agenda.
Outlining his vision for Ghana if elected president, Dr. Bawumia pledged to expand agriculture, ensure power sufficiency, and reform the tax system. He also stressed the importance of officially recognizing the church’s contributions to national development and assured it of necessary support.
Rev. Seth Mawutor, Chairman of the Christian Council in the Volta Region, emphasized the need to maintain national peace during the election period and assured the Council’s continued support.
Accompanied by NPP leaders, including Mr. Stephen Ntim, National Chairman of the NPP, and Mr. Stephen Asamoah Boateng, Minister for Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, Dr. Bawumia also met with members of the Muslim community and the Volta Region House of Chiefs.
He is scheduled to engage with the youth at a forum at Ho Technical University before proceeding to the Oti Region on Friday.
