- Kofi said the inaction represents a betrayal of the fundamental rights
- The CPA questioned the government's priorities
- The CPA highlighted real-world consequences of the legislative vacuum
Consumer advocates have sharply criticized the Ghanaian government for its 19-year delay in passing crucial consumer protection legislation, leaving millions of Ghanaians vulnerable to unfair business practices.
The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA) CEO, Mr. Koffi Kapito, lambasted the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI) for allowing the draft Consumer Protection Bill to languish since 2005.
He emphasized that this inaction represents a betrayal of the fundamental rights of Ghanaian citizens.
Policy analysts and economists have expressed concerns about the far-reaching economic implications of the absence of comprehensive consumer protection laws.
The regulatory vacuum could undermine consumer confidence, deter foreign investment, and create an unpredictable marketplace.
The Consumer Protection Bill, initially drafted in 2005, has faced repeated delays despite promises from successive governments to prioritize its passage.
The bill’s stagnation has raised questions about the influence of business interests on the legislative process.
The CPA highlighted real-world consequences of the legislative vacuum, citing cases of contaminated food products, faulty goods, and damages from utility company negligence.
Despite political promises to address the issue, the bill remains stalled, raising concerns about the government’s priorities and the potential for political gimmicks.
The CPA has announced plans to escalate their advocacy efforts, including organizing protests and petitions to pressure the government to take action.
The prolonged delay has fueled speculation about the influence of business interests on the legislative process, with the CPA hinting at potential collusion against the public.
The government’s apparent inaction on consumer protection stands in stark contrast to its swift response to international pressures.
The CPA questioned the government’s priorities, emphasizing the need for immediate action to protect Ghanaian consumers.
With elections approaching, the CPA has called on the Minister of Trade to introduce the bill to Parliament in October.
The organization hopes to avoid mass demonstrations and demonstrate the government’s commitment to protecting its constituents.
