The Consumer Protection Agency (CPA), has joined a suit filed by an Accra-based lawyer challenging the recent increases in utility tariffs. The suit, originally filed by Mr Kwame Boateng is seeking an order from the court compelling the Public Utilities Regulatory Commission (PURC) to reduce the electricity and water tariffs. The suit is also seeking an injunction restraining the PURC, the Attorney General, and the utility providers from implementing the new tariffs. The PURC, a couple of weeks ago, announced new tariffs for water and electricity – water, 36 per cent and electricity, as high as 42 per cent. Since the announcement, many civil society organizations have vehemently opposed the increases arguing they are unjustified. Rationalizing the CPA’s decision to join the suit, the founder, Mr Kofi Capito, told Joy News’ Sammy Darko that during consultations with the public before the announcement, it was realized that majority of Ghanaians were not in favour of the tariff hikes. He said apart from the absurdity of the rate of increases, there was no clarity in the margin of increases. The case has been scheduled for hearing on Friday, June 11, 2010. The PURC’s lawyers are said to be preparing to meet lawyer Kwame Boateng and the CPA in court. Story by Malik Abass Daabu/Myjoyonline.com/Ghana