The Ministry of Transport is preparing to engage the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) and other transport operators following reports of artificial vehicle shortages and the charging of unapproved fares in Accra.

The concern was highlighted by the Minister of Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, during the Government Accountability Series on Wednesday, 14 January 2026. He said government had received complaints from commuters about difficulties in accessing public transport and being compelled to pay fares higher than the approved rates.

Mr Kwakye Ofosu explained that the situation emerged after recent reductions in fuel prices, which prompted transport unions to announce a 15 per cent reduction in transport fares. Despite the agreed adjustment, some operators allegedly withdrew vehicles from service or reduced trips in order to create shortages, thereby forcing commuters to accept inflated fares.

He described the conduct as rent-seeking and warned that such practices undermine public confidence and place unnecessary financial burdens on commuters, particularly workers and students who rely heavily on public transport.

According to Mr Kwakye Ofosu, the Minister for Transport has formally requested a meeting with the leadership of the GPRTU and other relevant transport unions to address the situation. The discussions are expected to focus on enforcing compliance with the new fare structure, preventing deliberate service disruptions, and protecting commuters from exploitation.

He added that government will work with law enforcement agencies and transport regulators to ensure that operators who flout agreed fares and create artificial shortages are sanctioned, stressing that fare adjustments must reflect fuel price movements and be implemented fairly.

The Ministry of Transport, he said, remains committed to maintaining an efficient and affordable public transport system and will take all necessary steps to safeguard the interests of commuters.