Transport drivers at Ghana’s ports are threatening to down tools from April 14-17 over “onerous” new regulations imposed by the Ghana Shippers Authority (GSA), unless the government intervenes.
Representing over 11,000 drivers, the Joint Association of Port Transport Drivers (JAPTU) claimed the new policies disregard existing systems and threaten livelihoods.
The union stated the rules add extra fees and protocols, contradicted decades-old operational practices.”
The charges are unacceptable, and we won’t pay,” said JAPTU National Chairman, Shamsu Babayaro.
“We’re appealing to the government to step in and scrap these unfair rules.”
Drivers are frustrated with added financial burdens and uncertainty, citing increased operational costs and disruptions.
Some members expressed anger, saying the Ghana Shippers Authority is overstepping its bounds.”
We want the re-registration scrapped or a fresh dialogue with the Shippers Authority,” a union member said. The government has been urged to address the situation before the strike deadline, with drivers prepared to take action if their demands aren’t met. Union members are anxiously awaiting government intervention.
