The Chamber of Petroleum Consumers (COPEC) has refuted reports suggesting that public transport fares will increase by 20% effective Friday, August 8, 2025, describing the claim as unfounded and premature.
In a press release issued on August 5, COPEC said its checks with key transport unions, including the Ghana Private Roads Transport Union (GPRTU) and other driver groups, indicate that no such decision has been taken. The group questioned the basis for any upward adjustment in fares, especially at a time when fuel prices and spare parts costs have not significantly increased.
“It is difficult to comprehend what matrices inform such a drastic upward review of public transport fares, as it affects largely the poor and already suffering masses,” the statement, signed by Executive Secretary Duncan Amoah, read.
COPEC acknowledged that some driver unions have cited the recently introduced “One Ghana” fuel levy as justification for the proposed fare hike. However, it argued that the levy’s impact is not enough to warrant any increase, pointing out that sustained reductions in fuel prices over the past few months have provided some relief.
“For the avoidance of doubt, fuel prices which used to sell for around GHS15 per litre in January 2025, declined to around GHS11 and GHS12 per litre. A section of drivers even reduced their fares by 15%,” COPEC noted.
The group also raised concerns about discussions around reintroducing road tolls, warning that any such move must involve broad consultation to avoid disrupting the operations of drivers and transport unions.
READ: Transport fares to go up by 20% effective Aug 8 – GTRCC confirms
COPEC stressed that an unenforced proposal cannot be used to justify fare hikes, especially when it has not gone through due process or gained industry-wide consensus.
“It is imperative to note that an intention which has not yet been enforced cannot and should not form the basis of any increment in transport fares, as the effects will not only be felt by the already suffering masses but will further diffuse genuine outcry by the people for the cost of goods and services to be reduced,” the statement added.
COPEC concluded by commending the country’s largest transport union for rejecting any fare hikes at this time, saying current conditions do not support such an increment and urging for restraint and proper stakeholder engagement.
Below is a copy of the statement:
Source: Starrrfm.com.gh
