GPRTU fumes over new GHS1 fuel levy, cites lack of consultation

The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) is frustrated. They oppose the government's new GHS1 levy on petroleum products. The union claims authorities did not consult key stakeholders before passing this policy.

Alhaji Abass Imoro, the GPRTU's Industrial Relations Officer, spoke on Citi Eyewitness News. He called the levy a heavy blow to drivers. This comes after a recent 15% reduction in transport fares.

Imoro expressed confusion over the government's explanation. He noted that a GHS1 charge per litre is significant. The union had hoped for relief from fare reductions due to currency appreciation and lower fuel prices.

Recently, Parliament approved the Energy Sector Levy (Amendment) Bill, 2025. This bill includes a GHS1 increase in the petroleum levy. The government aims to raise about GHS5.7 billion annually to address energy sector debt.

However, the GPRTU insists on more transparency and dialogue before such decisions are made. They believe professional drivers should have been included in discussions about the levy. Imoro emphasized that every cedi counts for drivers and affects their livelihoods significantly.