Concerned Drivers Association threaten 20% fare increment over VIP price hikes

Regional chairmen of the (C-DAG), together with several transport unions across the country, have strongly condemned what they describe as the unilateral increase in transport fares by some VIP bus operators without broader consultation with industry stakeholders.

The unions argue that the fare hikes were implemented without engagement with key transport groups, creating growing frustration within Ghana’s transport sector and raising concerns about fairness among commercial transport operators.

In a statement dated May 19, 2026, and signed by several regional chairmen, the association criticised what it described as selective fare adjustments that favour certain operators while other commercial drivers continue to struggle with rising operational costs.

According to the unions, drivers operating within cities and districts are facing increasing expenses linked to fuel prices, spare parts, taxes, vehicle servicing, and general maintenance, yet have not received any approved fare adjustments to offset those pressures.

“It is unfair for one section of the transport sector to increase fares at will while commercial drivers operating within the cities and districts continue to bear the rising cost of fuel, spare parts, taxes, and vehicle maintenance without any corresponding adjustments,” the statement said.

The unions further accused authorities of failing to respond decisively to the issue, warning that the silence of regulators and transport leadership was creating tension, uncertainty, and confusion within the industry and among commuters nationwide.

“The silence of the authorities on this matter is creating tension and confusion within the transport industry and among commuters across the country,” the statement added.

As part of their demands, the transport unions have issued a one-week ultimatum to the Minister for Transport, the leadership of the (GPRTU), and the National Chairman of C-DAG to intervene immediately and address the concerns surrounding the unapproved fare increases.

The groups warned that failure to resolve the issue by Monday would trigger a nationwide adjustment in transport fares by drivers affiliated with the various unions.

According to the statement, commercial drivers across all participating unions are prepared to implement a 20 percent increase in transport fares if authorities fail to restore what they describe as fairness and consistency within the transport sector.

The latest development comes amid increasing concerns over the cost of transportation in Ghana, with both transport operators and commuters facing economic pressures linked to fuel costs, inflation, and rising living expenses.

Transport fare adjustments in Ghana are traditionally negotiated between transport unions and government regulators to ensure coordinated implementation and avoid confusion within the public transport system.

Industry observers warn that a nationwide fare increase could further increase the cost of living for many Ghanaians, especially urban commuters who rely heavily on commercial transport for daily movement.