Commercial drivers have suspended their planned nationwide strike, which was scheduled for Wednesday, November 4, following intervention by the Interior Ministry, the Roads Minister, and other key stakeholders. The strike was initially called in response to concerns over the implementation of the Traffic Management Technology, TraffiTech-GH, with drivers citing issues such as the alleged harassment and arrest of drivers at bus stops occupied by traders.
Samuel Amoah, Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), explained on GhanAkoma (hosted by Sir John) that the union decided to suspend the strike after government officials and stakeholders appealed for dialogue. According to Mr. Amoah, the authorities recognised the drivers’ concerns and encouraged them to submit their grievances formally for resolution.
“Yesterday, we received calls from the Interior Ministry, the Roads Minister, and other stakeholders, who urged us to suspend the planned strike. They acknowledged our concerns and asked us to present them formally so they could address the issue, especially the presence of traders at bus stops. They also assured us that drivers parking in these areas will not be arrested by the police,” he said.
Mr. Amoah further indicated that an agreement had been reached with stakeholders to remove traders from bus stop areas and pedestrian walkways by the end of November. “We have agreed with all stakeholders that, between now and the end of November, traders will be cleared from bus stop areas and pedestrian walkways,” he added.
With the suspension of the strike, commercial transport services are expected to continue without disruption as efforts are made to resolve the drivers’ concerns. This development occurs as the TraffiTech-GH system continues to be rolled out to enhance traffic regulation and enforcement.
