The Speaker of Parliament, Hon. Dr. Abass Bundu, announced the postponement of the proposed toll gate charge increase slated for March 1st, 2024. The over 100% surge, initially announced by the Minister of Works and Public Assets, Dr. Dennis Sandy, on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, was set to be enforced starting today, Friday, March 1, 2024.
The Speaker clarified that the delay is to allow the Parliamentary Committee of Works ample time to conduct a thorough and detailed study of the agreement underpinning the proposed toll gate charge adjustments. This decision aligns with the commitment to ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the implications of the substantial increase before its implementation.
Yesterday Thursday 29th February, the agreement, which would ratify the new charges, was presented in Parliament. However, Speaker Abass Bundu emphasized that the Minister of Works and Public Assets would be informed about the next parliamentary session where he will be invited to provide a detailed presentation to the members.