By Omotayo Edubi
Commercial drivers in the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi, want transport fares increased to 30 percent instead of the 15 percent announced by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU).
Following the constant hike in fuel prices in the last couple of months, transport fares have been increased by 15 percent across the country, which took effect on Saturday, February 26, 2022.
Speaking to reporters, some drivers called on the government to consider abolishing some taxes imposed on petroleum products to help reduce their burden.
“We are not satisfied with the 15% increment in the fares. This is the first time we are increasing our fares since the constant increase in fuel prices.
“If the prices are stable, transport fares will also be stable. We cannot buy products at expensive prices and sell at lower prices.The government is being unfair to us.
“The taxes on the fuel should be scrapped. We want a 30% increase, the 15% is not enough.
“When fuel prices increase, it affects every aspect of life. There is currently chaos in Ukraine, and fuel prices are likely to increase again. The taxes should be scrapped.” The drivers lamented.
Transport operators have for the past months been calling on the government to scrap some of petroleum taxes to help reduce the constant upsurge in fuel prices, or they would be forced to increase the transport fares.
On December 6, 2021, out of frustration, commercial drivers across the country embarked on a sit-down strike to press home their demand.
Commuters were stranded as there were no cars ready to move. Some drivers were even seen playing football at lorry terminals while commuters looked on helplessly.
Before this, they had embarked on a red-arm band demonstration.
All these were to get the government to reduce the daily increase in fuel prices, but that did not happen across board, except for GOIL that reduced its price per litre at the pump slightly.
For the year 2022, fuel prices started at GHC6 per litre, but currently sells at almost GHS.8.00 at some pumps.
