Fanteakwa chairman of the Co-operative Transport Union, Mr. Otuo Siriboe, has explained that decisions on transport fare adjustments in Ghana are made through consultations between transport unions and the government, not by individual drivers or local transport stations.
Speaking on Bryt Adekyee mu Nsem on Bryt FM, Mr. Siriboe said the Ghana Road Transport Union operates at the national level and serves as the official body that engages the government whenever there is the need to review transport fares.
According to him, before any transport fare increment is announced, the national transport leadership meets with government officials to discuss the prevailing economic conditions, including the prices of fuel, vehicle spare parts, lubricants and other operational costs affecting transport operators. After both parties assess the situation and reach a mutual agreement, a new transport fare is announced for implementation across the country.
Mr. Siriboe stated that the recent transport fare adjustment followed this established process, adding that the government agreed to a modest increase after discussions with transport union leaders.
He further explained that beyond the national body, regional and district transport unions also have legal authority to meet and assess challenges affecting their members. Where necessary, they can make recommendations based on their local circumstances, but such decisions must remain consistent with the national framework governing transport fare reviews.
Mr. Siriboe also referred to a recent statement by the President of the Republic, who acknowledged concerns raised by both commuters and commercial drivers over the rising cost of transportation. According to him, the President announced a reduction of GH¢2 per litre in the price of petroleum products to ease the burden on Ghanaians and transport operators.
He expressed the hope that the reduction in fuel prices would help lower the operational costs of commercial drivers and contribute to stability within the transport sector.
Source:Mybrytfmonlinmee.com/Amuzu Priscilla
