GPRTU Accuses Government of Betrayal Over Fuel Levy Hike After Fare Reduction
Union threatens nationwide strike if GH₵1 fuel levy is not addressed by June 10
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has accused the government of betrayal following a GH₵1 increase in the Energy Sector Levy, just days after commercial drivers agreed to a 15% reduction in transport fares.
The union has issued an ultimatum, warning that it will embark on a nationwide strike if the levy is not reviewed by June 10, 2025.
The GPRTU’s Industrial Relations Officer, expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of transparency and consultation during the fare reduction discussions.
“They knew they were planning this levy increase but didn’t disclose it during negotiations,” Imoro said. “Had we known, we would have reconsidered the depth of the 15% fare cut.”
Imoro added that the GH₵1 increment per litre of fuel completely undermines the economic viability of the fare reduction for commercial drivers.
“Looking at the 15% reduction and the GH₵1 per litre increase — the two simply don’t match. It puts our members at a financial loss,” he emphasized.
He also criticized the government for failing to involve the union in such a critical policy change, despite GPRTU’s major stake in fuel consumption across the transport sector.
“We are a key stakeholder in the fuel industry. It would have been proper to engage us first before implementing such a measure,” he said.
The GPRTU is now calling on the government to open dialogue before the deadline, or face industrial action.
“We’ve respectfully given the government until June 10 to engage with us. If nothing happens before then, we’ll take the necessary steps,” Imoro warned.
