GPRTU suspends strike over new fuel levy
The Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has temporarily suspended its planned strike after government assurances that a new GHS1 petroleum levy won’t immediately raise fuel prices. Union leaders will monitor pump prices when the levy takes effect June 16 before deciding on further action.
“We’ve paused the strike, not canceled it. If prices stay stable, we won’t act. But any increase will force us to reconsider,” said GPRTU spokesman Alhaji Abbas Ibrahim Moro.
The decision comes after transport operators recently cut fares by 15 percent following fuel price reductions. The union fears the new levy could erase these gains, potentially requiring fare hikes that would burden commuters.
Government officials maintain the levy won’t affect pump prices due to agreements with oil marketers. However, operators remain skeptical, citing past cases where levies led to gradual price increases. Transport services continue normally as the union awaits the levy’s implementation. Final strike plans depend on price changes after June 16.
