The LPG Marketing Companies Association of Ghana has strongly denied allegations that it opposes the implementation of the Cylinder Recirculation Model (CRM) by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA).

This rebuttal comes after Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), asserted that the association was against the CRM.

In a statement issued on July 21, the Association declared, “The assertion that we oppose the CRM is categorically false.

We have had extensive discussions with the NPA and have mutually agreed that both the refilling and CRM systems should operate concurrently.”

The Association emphasized that its advertisements aim to promote LPG usage for environmental protection and support for local businesses, rather than to oppose the CRM.

It also criticized the NPA for not allowing the installation of cages at LPG stations to facilitate CRM cylinder distribution, calling this stance ironic and misleading in light of the NPA CEO’s accusations.

“We find it very ironic and disingenuous that the CEO will turn around and accuse us of being backwards-looking and resistant to change.

We take very serious exception to that derogatory statement,” the Association stated.

The Association urged the NPA CEO to avoid making comments that undermine their efforts and incite public dissent.

It called on the NPA to remain neutral and focus on its regulatory role, rather than using funds from its members to support foreign and semi-foreign entities while neglecting local businesses.

“It is unjust and unpatriotic to use taxpayer funds to support and advertise for private bottling companies that can promote themselves financially,” the statement said.

The Association reaffirmed its position that both the refill and CRM systems should coexist harmoniously.