Africa-Press – Ghana. Commercial drivers in Koforidua have expressed mixed reactions to government’s temporary reduction in fuel prices, introduced to ease pressure on transport costs and protect passengers amid global petroleum price volatility.
Following the announcement, a cross‐section of drivers said while the measure offered some relief, concerns remained about broader operating costs and road conditions.
Discover moreVehiclesEnergy & UtilitiesAutos & VehiclesMr George Bekoe, First Trustee of the Koforidua–Akim Oda Branch of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU), said the unpredictability of fuel prices on the international market continued to affect transport operators and commuters.
He commended government for the prompt intervention, noting that stabilising fuel prices would help manage fare expectations.
“This measure will prevent us from having problems with passengers regarding the issue of increased fares,” Mr Bekoe told the Ghana News Agency in an interview.
However, a commercial driver who plies the Koforidua–Kumasi route and spoke on condition of anonymity expressed dissatisfaction with the scale of the reduction.
He said poor road conditions, particularly potholes, increased drag and fuel consumption, making the reduction of GH¢2 per litre of diesel and GH¢0.36 per litre of petrol inadequate.
“The vehicle works harder and burns more fuel. I expected at least a GH¢3 reduction,” he said.
A communiqué signed by Mr Felix Kwakye Ofosu, Spokesperson to the President and Minister of Government Communications, had said the Cabinet‐approved measure was in response to rising international petroleum prices, which had significantly driven up ex‐pump prices in Ghana.
Mr Ofosu said the temporary intervention would remain in effect for one month, during which government would continue to monitor global oil market trends and assess the need for further policy adjustments to cushion consumers.
From the passengers’ perspective, some commuters urged drivers to embrace the reduction, describing it as a relief that could prevent fare hikes in the short term.
Mr Ishmael Opoku, a passenger, said the measure would reduce tension between drivers and commuters.
“This relief protects passengers from the fear of increased fares and helps ensure peace between drivers and passengers,” he said.
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