Some commercial transport operators have demanded the immediate reversal of the GH¢1 energy sector levy on petroleum products.
Speaking on Ghanakoma morning show on Akoma 87.9FM in Kumasi with Sir John, on 9th June, 2025, the Public Relations Officer of the True Drivers Association, Yaw Barima, said members are not happy about the development.
He said they have issued a statement on 8th June, 2025 and expect government to respond.
“This levy has increased our operational costs, affecting our livelihoods and the general public. If the government fails to act, we will take industrial action. On June 11th, 2025, we will park our vehicles nationwide, disrupting transportation services,” he said.
The country faces imminent crisis as commercial transport operators issue a definitive threat of a nationwide strike starting 11th June, 2025.
The drastic measure is a direct protest against the newly enacted GHC1 Levy on petroleum products, which operators fear could cripple their livelihoods and inflate fares for many passengers.
He condemned the Levy as a “unilateral decision” taken without consultation.
Yaw Barima cautioned that the levy would impose “untoward hardship” on the transport sector.
“The GHC1 increment per litre, which translates to a direct 6.7percent surge in our primary operational cost, comes on the wheels of already escalating expenses “, Yaw Barima stated.
He pointed out that, transport operators have already contended with a 15.20% rise in spare parts, maintenance, and insurance costs over the years.
“The new Levy could force us to implement a 10.15% fare hike, a burden that many urban Ghanaians who rely on public transport daily cannot bear”, he said.
He said transport unions in the country are demanding an immediate reversal of the policy and a comprehensive engagement with the government and relevant stakeholders.
