Transport Minister to meet GPRTU over artificial scarcity of buses

The Minister for Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, is scheduled to meet with the Ghana Private Roads and Transport Union (GPRTU) and commercial transport operators to address concerns over the deliberate renting of vehicles and the creation of artificial scarcity in the sector.

The announcement was made by the Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. He noted that despite recent reductions in fuel prices and import levies on spare parts, some commercial vehicle operators are restricting vehicle availability to drive up fares.

“The [Transport] minister also informs me that I think tomorrow or so, he has requested for a meeting with the GPRTU and other transport operators to address the issue of rent-seeking, to call those engaged in that activity to order so that the hardship is alleviated. Now, some of these operators do not go to the designated spots. They roam in the hope that the shortage that is created will compel passengers or commuters to part with more money than they should ordinarily pay. They are creating scarcity to drive up prices so that they can engage in rent-seeking behaviour. It is unlawful activity and it must be looked [into],” he said.

Mr. Ofosu explained that drivers often deliberately limit vehicle availability, particularly in urban areas during peak hours, to boost profits. The issue has worsened commuting in Accra, with passengers facing long queues and high fares, especially in areas such as Madina, Amasaman, Kasoa, and Kwame Nkrumah Circle.

“The case is that the transport sector is largely private-sector-led, so we have bodies such as the GPRTU and other transport unions who organise the systems that convey the public,” he said.

He added that successive reductions in fuel prices, which led to a 15% drop in transport fares, have prompted some operators to engage in these unlawful practices. “After the persistent reduction in fuel prices, there are some operators who have decided to engage in undue practices by creating artificial shortages. It is an unlawful activity, and the government is looking at it to ensure that those involved in such behaviour are dealt with,” Mr. Ofosu said.

The planned engagement with GPRTU and transport operators is expected to curb artificial scarcity and ensure fair fare practices for commuters.