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The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has criticized the Ministry of Transport for its directive to the Ghana Police Service regarding the enforcement of new fares.
On Monday, April 15, the Ministry instructed the Ghana Police Service to monitor commercial drivers who are charging fares exceeding the approved rates.
Duncan Amoah, Executive Secretary of COPEC, argues that the Ministry lacks the authority to compel unions to adhere to the directive, as it has not addressed the underlying factors leading to alleged fare increases.
“The Transport Ministry lacks legal grounds to set transport fares, especially in a deregulated market like ours, where fare costs are determined by market forces. Costs such as insurance premiums are consistently added year after year. Fuel prices increase arbitrarily due to fluctuations in the dollar exchange rate, international market trends, and tax adjustments,” Amoah stated.
“Why is the Transport Ministry involved in these matters? It should not assume constitutional powers it does not currently possess, including the authority to order the arrest of drivers simply for trying to cover their operational expenses. While I am not advocating for excessive fare hikes, if drivers need to adjust fares to cover their costs, they should be allowed to do so,” he added.
Source:Omanghana.com
