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 provisions of the road traffic regulations act, 2012. The strike, spearheaded by the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), the Concerned Drivers Association of Ghana, and the True Drivers Union, aims to highlight the dangers posed by unchecked street trading on roads, pavements, and designated bus stops.
At the heart of the protest is Sub-regulation 117 of the Act, which explicitly prohibits selling, displaying, or delivering goods on roads, pedestrian walkways, railway crossings, intersections, toll booths, and plazas. Despite the law’s clarity, transport operators argue that authorities have failed to enforce it, leading to unsafe road conditions and worsening traffic congestion.
Press conference  and demands
During a press conference on Tuesday, May 13, Samuel Amoah, Deputy Public Relations Officer of the GPRTU, expressed frustration over the ongoing violation of the law, stating that it endangers drivers and passengers alike. The unions are demanding immediate action from the Ghana Police Service and the government to curb illegal trading on roads and ensure strict enforcement of traffic regulations.
Call for Government Intervention
The transport unions have extended an invitation to key government officials, including ministers responsible for Transport, Roads and Highways, Local Government and Religious Affairs, Trade and Industry, and the Interior, to join discussions on finding a sustainable solution.
Strike warning
The unions have warned that if no concrete steps are taken, they will park their vehicles in protest on May 19, emphasizing the need for designated parking spaces and improved urban traffic management systems. In his statement, Samuel Amoah reinforced their stance:
“If meaningful action is not taken, we will be forced to take drastic measures. On May 19, 2025, we will park our vehicles in protest, highlighting the need for designated parking spaces and strict enforcement of traffic regulations.”
Statement from concerned drivers association
Asonaba Nana Weridu, Deputy Secretary of the Concerned Drivers Association, clarified that the protest is not intended to disrupt economic activity but rather to push for reforms that promote safety and order. “We want sanity on the roads, not chaos. It’s about ensuring everyone can do business in a safe and organized space,” he stated.
The transport operators remain firm in their stance, insisting that unless meaningful action is taken, the strike will proceed as planned, potentially causing major disruptions to public transportation across the country.
