In a firm statement, the Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has rejected claims suggesting a looming 20% increase in public transport fares set to take effect on Friday, August 8, 2025.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, August 5, COPEC provided clarity on the situation after checking in with key transport unions, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU). Their findings revealed that no official decision had been made regarding such an increase.
COPEC has branded the proposed fare hike, which was announced by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC), as unjustifiable. Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah articulated the organization’s concerns, especially in light of the existing economic pressures faced by everyday Ghanaians.
“While the government has recently introduced a GH¢1 per litre fuel levy, it’s important to recognize that fuel prices at the pumps have been declining in recent months,” he noted, pointing out that these changes should not be the sole justification for raising fares.
Amoah further explained the context of recent fuel price trends. “In January 2025, fuel prices were around GH¢15 per litre. However, they have since dropped to approximately GH¢11 and GH¢12 per litre, prompting some drivers to voluntarily reduce transport fares by around 15%. Unfortunately, not all driver unions followed suit and had to be urged by local assemblies to adjust their rates,” he recounted.
The COPEC statement went on to express astonishment at the attempts by certain transport operators to rationalize a fare increase at this time. “On the balance of odds or numbers, the pricing levels today are still nowhere near those of January from which fare discussions could be validly considered,” the release read.
Adding to the discussion, Amoah criticized the notion of incorporating potential road toll reintroductions into fare calculations, stressing that the tolls have not yet been implemented and thus should not prematurely affect fare decisions.
In a positive note, COPEC welcomed the stance of the largest transport union, which has already dismissed the proposed fare increase, citing stability in fuel and spare parts prices.
Amoah concluded by calling for all stakeholders to engage in thorough consultations before making decisions that could exacerbate the financial strain on commuters. His remarks underscore the need for a balanced approach in navigating transport fare discussions amid fluctuating economic conditions.
Source: Apexnewsgh.com/Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
