The directives issued by the Transport Ministry to security agencies, instructing them to arrest any drivers who have implemented fare increases, are unlikely to be effective for private commercial car owners. These individuals are grappling with the soaring costs of fuel and spare parts, which significantly contribute to the operational expenses of running transport businesses in the country.
Paa Willie, the National Chairman of the Concern Drivers Association of Ghana (C-DAG), voiced these concerns during an interview on the Adekyee Mu Nsem morning show on Ahotor 92.3 FM, hosted by Citizen Kofi Owusu in Accra. He emphasized that the challenges faced by commuters must be attributed to the government, expressing skepticism about the government’s commitment to addressing new transport fares.
Since December of last year, the escalating fuel prices and exorbitant costs of spare parts have placed immense pressure on the transportation sector, with no urgent intervention from the government. Paa Willie believes that it is the government’s responsibility to alleviate the burdens faced by citizens.
The Ghana Private Roads Transport Union (GPRTU) perceives the Transport Ministry’s directive to security agencies as a measure aimed at regulating the system and ensuring compliance with proper procedures. They view it as an effort to maintain order amidst ongoing discussions regarding new public transport fares due to the recent surge in fuel prices and operational costs.
In response, the Ministry of Transport has urged commercial drivers to adhere to the existing public transport fares, as negotiated by the GPRTU of TUC and the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC). The Ministry warned that drivers who defy this directive will face legal consequences.
Abass Imoro, Industrial Relations Officer of the GPRTU, interpreted the Ministry’s actions as an attempt to restore order to the negotiation process, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to reach a resolution. He underscored the importance of collaborative efforts to resolve the delicate situation and urged all stakeholders to contribute to an amicable resolution during upcoming negotiations.
