The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA), alongside representatives from CUTS International Accra and Imani Africa, voiced strong concerns over the continued delay in passing the Consumer Protection Bill into law.
The joint efforts by these organisations underscore their commitment to ensuring the rights and welfare of Ghanaian consumers.
Mr. Koffi Kapito, CEO of CPA, addressing a press conference in Accra, this week, indicated that the protracted struggle to advance the Consumer Protection Bill, initially introduced in 2005, was to the disadvantage of the public.
His challenge for drawing public attention hinges on the bill’s importance, yet it has remained dormant in the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MOTI) for nearly two decades.
In contrast, he said other draft bills, including the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) Bill have successfully navigated the legislative process.
“The Consumer Protection Bill was drafted in 2005, yet it remains untouched, while other bills have swiftly progressed through Parliament,” said Mr. Kapito.
He noted that the NPP government, which promised in its 2016 manifesto to prioritise consumer protection has not fulfilled this commitment.
The bill was also notably absent from the NPP’s 2024 manifesto, raising concerns about its future prospects.
He said the bill’s lack of progress contrasts sharply with other legislative advancements, including the recent Affirmative Action Act, which was passed as part of IMF conditionalities.
Mr. Kapito added that this discrepancy has led to frustration among consumer rights advocates, questioning whether the government’s inaction is influenced by business interests.
He underscored the real-life impact of the bill’s delay, citing everyday scenarios where consumers suffer due to inadequate protection.
Mr. Kapito was of the view that from contaminated food products to faulty electronics and complex redress processes, the absence of robust consumer protection legislation has left many vulnerable.
The press conference also raised concerns about business associations that, while advocating for their interests, may inadvertently hinder consumer protection efforts.
Meanwhile, he noted that the Ghana Union of Traders (GUTA), for instance, is planning to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with potential future governments, highlighting the proactive measures businesses are taking to safeguard their interests.
Mr. Kapito and his colleagues have called on the government and Parliament to prioritise the Consumer Protection Bill.
They urged MOTI to finalise the draft, consult stakeholders and present the bill to Parliament at least by October.
Additionally, they are mobilising one thousand consumers to picket at MOTI until tangible progress is made.
Mr. Kapito reiterated the necessity of the bill for the protection of Ghanaian consumers, adding, “The people of Ghana deserve no less.”
He stated, emphasising that the government must act decisively to enact the Consumer Protection Law and safeguard the rights of its citizens.
Mr. Kapito added that the CPA, CUTS International Accra and Imani Africa remain committed to advocating for the bill’s passage and ensuring its effective implementation to benefit all Ghanaians.
