COPEC Rejects Proposed 20% Transport Fare Hike, Calls Move Unjustified and Harmful to Ghanaians

The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers Ghana (COPEC) has issued a strong statement dismissing reports of an imminent 20% increase in public transport fares, describing the move as unjustified, insensitive, and lacking consensus among key stakeholders.

In a press release signed by COPEC’s Executive Secretary, Mr. Duncan Amoah, the organization responded to a recent announcement by the Ghana Road Transport Coordinating Council (GRTCC) that public transport fares would rise by 20% effective Friday, August 8, 2025. COPEC insists that no such agreement has been reached with major transport unions, including the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other driver groups.

No Stakeholder Consensus on Fare Hike

“Our checks with the various transport Unions… indicate no such decision has been taken,” COPEC stated, warning against using unconfirmed policy announcements as grounds to increase the burden on already struggling citizens.

The group also questioned the logic behind the proposed fare adjustment, pointing out that the primary justification—a recent GH¢1 increase in fuel prices due to a new government levy—does not warrant such a significant fare hike.

Fuel Prices Have Dropped Significantly

According to COPEC, fuel prices have seen a consistent decline in recent months, falling from around GH¢15 per litre in January to between GH¢11 and GH¢12 per litre currently. They argue that this decline far outweighs the minor upward adjustment caused by the new levy.

“Fuel prices… are still not anywhere near the January prices from which transport fare discussions could be had,” the statement emphasized, noting that even during periods of falling fuel costs, some drivers refused to reduce fares until compelled by local authorities.

Road Tolls and Driver Concerns

COPEC also acknowledged concerns raised by some driver unions regarding the government’s intention to reintroduce road tolls. While the organization recognizes that this move could impact drivers financially, it cautioned that the tolls have not yet been implemented and therefore should not be used as a basis for raising transport fares.

“We believe they [drivers] must be consulted broadly before any such attempts are crystalized,” COPEC added.

Call for Compassion and Caution

Highlighting the economic hardships faced by ordinary Ghanaians, COPEC called on all stakeholders to act in the interest of the public, urging restraint and empathy in decision-making.

“It is imperative to note that an intention which has not yet been enforced cannot and should not form the basis of any increment in transport fares,” the release stressed. “The effects will not only be felt by the already suffering masses but will further diffuse genuine outcry by the people for the cost of goods and services to be reduced.”

COPEC welcomed the stance of the largest transport union, which has reportedly rejected the proposed fare hike, citing the lack of significant increases in both spare parts and fuel costs.

Conclusion

As pressure mounts on transport operators and government authorities, COPEC’s firm stance signals a growing call for fairness, transparency, and empathy in Ghana’s transport pricing policies. The organization maintains that until there is clear justification and broader consensus, any upward review of fares should be suspended.