The Ghana Medical Association (GMA) has requested an urgent meeting with the Minister of Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, over the suspension of the Vehicle Importation Tax Waiver for medical doctors and dentists in the public sector.

The policy was part of the Conditions of Service agreement signed on March 27, 2024, and was expected to take effect in July 2024.

However, a joint statement signed by GMA President Dr. Frank Serebour and General Secretary Dr. Richard Selormey raised concerns over the delayed implementation.

The statement indicated that some members who imported vehicles have been unable to clear them at the port due to the suspension, leaving them at risk of confiscation.

“Members would recall that in a communication to members on 19th February 2025, we informed you of the challenges and requested that members who planned to use the waiver should hold off with their applications while we resolved issues with the implementation,” the statement said.

GMA noted that the Minister’s attention was drawn to the situation in a letter dated February 20, 2025, but there has been no progress.

“The National Executive Council, as a matter of principle, has resolved to request an urgent meeting with the Minister of Health to address the challenges and ensure that the Vehicle Importation Tax Waiver is reinstated, particularly for members whose cars are still stuck at the ports,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, GMA has announced plans to hold an emergency meeting after the engagement with the minister to determine the next course of action.