Fuel Levy a betrayal after fare reduction – GPRTU accuses government

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) is unhappy with the government. They criticize the recent increase of the Energy Sector Levy by GH₵1 per litre of fuel. The Union calls this a betrayal, especially after a 15% fare reduction agreement.

The timing of this levy hike is concerning. It comes just days after drivers cut fares across the country.

The GPRTU has warned of a possible nationwide strike. They will take action if the government does not address their concerns by 10 June 2025.

On Thursday, 5 June, Abass Imoro spoke on Citi FM. He is the Union’s Industrial Relations Officer and criticized the government's lack of transparency.

He stated that officials did not reveal their plans during fare negotiations. This, he believes, was very deceptive.

“They knew they had this plan,” Mr. Imoro said. “We discussed the 15% fare reduction and reached an agreement.”

“It is painful because we would have acted differently if we knew,” he added. “The fare reduction wouldn’t have been so deep.”

Mr. Imoro also criticized the lack of consultation with drivers. He emphasized that drivers play a key role in fuel consumption.

He argued that the levy increase undermines the fare reduction's impact and adds financial strain on drivers.

“We are major players in the fuel sector,” he said. “It’s only fair for the government to engage us before making such decisions.”