A coalition of commercial transport operators has issued a stern ultimatum to the government and the Ghana Police Service, demanding immediate enforcement of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (L.I. 2180), particularly provisions that prohibit trading on roads and pavements.
At a press conference held in Accra on Monday, the group expressed frustration over what they described as the continued encroachment of traders on roadways, a situation they say poses serious safety risks and contributes to traffic congestion.
“We, the transport operators, have gathered here today to express our deep concern about the indiscriminate trading on roads and pavements,” the group stated. “Despite the existence of L.I. 2180, traders continue to flout the law with impunity.”
They accused authorities of applying double standards by strictly regulating transport operators while turning a blind eye to street traders who, they argue, contribute significantly to the disruption of urban traffic and public safety.
The group has set May 19, 2025, as the deadline for enforcement. If no action is taken, they say they will park their vehicles nationwide in protest a move expected to severely disrupt transportation services across the country.
In a call for broad stakeholder engagement, the group has invited several key government officials to join them in a planned demonstration. These include the Ministers of Transport, Roads and Highways, Local Government and Religious Affairs, Trade and Industry, and Interior.
“This is not just about enforcement. It’s about promoting safety, order, and economic activity through proper collaboration,” they noted.
The statement was signed by leaders from major transport associations, including Paa Willie, National Chairman of the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana; Yaw Barima, National P.R.O. of the True Drivers Union; and Samuel Amoah, Deputy Industrial Regulations Officer of the GPRTU.
The transport operators say their goal is not confrontation but a fair application of the law that benefits all parties.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
