Tensions are rising in the transport sector as transport unions have joined forces to condemn a reported plan to increase motor insurance premiums by 40 percent.
In a joint statement released on Tuesday February 17, the Commercial Transport Operators of Ghana and the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) of TUC expressed “shock and dismay” at the proposed upward adjustment.
The unions have demanded an immediate withdrawal of the plan, describing it as a “recipe for disaster” that could cripple an industry already struggling with high operational costs.
The unions argue that the current economic climate has already left drivers and transport owners struggling to survive.
A 40% hike in insurance a mandatory requirement for all commercial vehicles would be a tipping point for many.
”The additional financial burden will cripple our businesses, leading to increased operational costs, reduced incomes, and hardship for our families,” the statement noted.
Significantly, the unions clarified that they are not currently increasing transport fares.
Instead, their primary objective is to stop the insurance increment before it forces their hand.
The leadership emphasized that if the insurance hike is implemented, it will inevitably lead to higher fares for passengers, adding more strain to the pockets of ordinary Ghanaians who rely on commercial transport for their daily commute.
The joint leadership has outlined a clear path of resistance if the authorities do not reconsider.
The unions are calling for “meaningful dialogue” with the National Insurance Commission (NIC) and other relevant authorities to find alternative solutions.
All commercial drivers and transport owners have been urged to stand united against the “threat.”
If the plan is not aborted, the unions have pledged to organize nationwide protests and demonstrations to protect their members’ interests.
The unions have signaled that while they are committed to providing quality service, they will not do so at the cost of their own economic survival.
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