Transport operators that engage in rent-seeking behavior have received a severe warning from the government, which warns that if they continue to abuse passengers in the midst of current economic relief measures, appropriate action will be taken to enforce ordinances and regulations.
Felix Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister for Government Communications, issued the warning on Wednesday, January 14, 2025, during the Government Accountability Series at the Jubilee House.
He addressed concerns about excessive fares charged by operators and commuter congestion at terminals and bus stops in Accra during rush hours.
Mr. Ofosu explained the recent increase in passenger numbers by citing post-festive season activity, as commuters go to commercial areas and marketplaces to purchase goods.
He pointed out that several of the cars that the Ministry of Transportation had sent out to help had been taken out of service, which made matters worse and allowed rent-seeking to continue.
He pointed out that the State Transport Company (STC) has been instructed by the Transport Minister to put withdrawn vehicles back on the road right now.
In order to reduce the continuing traffic, a number of Metro Mass Transit buses that have broken down are also receiving accelerated repairs. These buses will resume operations within days, albeit outside of their usual routes and schedules.
Mr. Ofosu Kwakye also revealed that a meeting with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transportation providers has been set for this Thursday in order to address the problem of rent-seeking and exhort those engaged to stop doing so in order to lessen the suffering that commuters endure.
The minister emphasized that the transportation industry is still mostly driven by the private sector while highlighting the government’s efforts to increase the number of Metro Mass Transit vehicles.
“Government can play an increasing role in the transportation sector, which is primarily driven by the private sector, so these private sector players must play by the rules and avoid unfair exploitation of passengers through the creation of artificial scarcity,” he stated.
He cited declines in fuel prices, the cost of imported replacement parts, and large cuts in duty payments for container loads at ports to support his claim that there is currently no legitimate foundation for rent-seeking.
“We urge them to desist, or action will be taken to enforce the appropriate bylaws and regulations. There can be no excuse for wanting to do what they are doing at the moment,” he warned.
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