Commercial drivers to strike May 19 over roadside trading, traffic violations

Commercial transport operators across the country plan a nationwide strike. This strike is set for Monday, May 19, 2025. They are protesting the government's failure to enforce the Road Traffic Regulations Act of 2012.

This law prohibits trading on roads, pavements, and at bus stops. Their main concern is Sub-regulation 117 of the Act. It states that selling goods on or near roads is not allowed.

Despite this clear law, authorities have not enforced it. This negligence has led to unsafe road conditions and increased traffic congestion. Transport operators say these issues affect many areas in the country.

At a press conference on May 13, Samuel Amoah spoke for the GPRTU. He said ongoing violations put drivers and passengers at risk. The protest is led by GPRTU, the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana, and the True Drivers Union.

The union demands immediate action from the Ghana Police Service and the government. “We urge them to enforce the law against traders who break these regulations,” said Amoah. He added that it’s unfair for transport operators to follow strict rules while traders do not.

They warned that if no action is taken, they will strike as planned. “On May 19, we will park our vehicles in protest,” he stated. They want designated parking spaces and strict enforcement of traffic laws.