Commercial transport operators across Ghana have announced a nationwide strike set for Monday, May 19, 2025, in protest against the government’s failure to enforce key provisions of the Road Traffic Regulations Act, 2012 (LI 2180), particularly those prohibiting trading on roads and at bus stops.
At the heart of their grievances is Sub-regulation 117, which clearly prohibits the sale or display of goods on roads, pavements, pedestrian walkways, intersections, and near traffic signs or toll booths. Despite the law’s clarity, transport unions say authorities have consistently failed to enforce it.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, May 13, Samuel Amoah, Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), said the lack of enforcement has resulted in growing safety risks and severe traffic congestion.
“Our members are operating under increasingly dangerous conditions,” Amoah said. “Passengers are at risk, drivers are frustrated, and yet the law is being ignored. We’re calling for immediate enforcement.”
The protest is being led by a coalition of major transport groups including the GPRTU, the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana, and the True Drivers Union. The unions insist they are not against traders but are demanding fairness and the rule of law.
“We urge the Ghana Police Service and the government to crack down on traders who disregard traffic regulations. Drivers are held to high standards and compliance—traders must be too,” Amoah emphasized.
The unions have issued a stern warning: unless concrete action is taken before May 19, all member drivers will withdraw their services in a coordinated nationwide strike.
“If nothing changes, we will park our vehicles in protest. This is about safety, discipline, and respect for the law,” Amoah said.
As tensions rise, commuters are advised to prepare for possible disruptions next week, should the strike proceed as planned.
