Although GPRTU has been a union which fights for drivers, for some years now, the union has been under political influence while commercial drivers suffer.
Instead of speaking boldly for the driver on the ground, many feel the union now speaks the language of politicians.
The biggest evidence is the transport fares. How can fuel prices go up and the government will be in agreement with GPRTU for drivers not to increase their transport fare?
Fuel is the main cost for every driver.
When petrol and diesel go up by 20 per cent, but fares stay the same, the driver absorbs all the loss.
Tyres, spare parts and engine oil have also gone up, but the money coming in remains the same.
This is unfair and unsustainable.
Why fair treatment matters:
● Fair fares = Better service: When drivers can make a reasonable profit, they will maintain their vehicles well and drive safely.
● Social protection: Most drivers have no insurance, no pension, and no healthcare. A welfare scheme through their union can help during sickness or accidents.
For commercial drivers to be treated fairly, three things must happen:
● Strengthen and depoliticise the Union: GPRTU and other driver unions must go back to their core mandate: protecting drivers. Leadership should be elected transparently and free from political control so that they can negotiate boldly with government.
● Automatic Fare Adjustment Formula: Government, GPRTU and other stakeholders should agree on a formula. When fuel goes up or down by a certain percentage, fares should adjust automatically. This removes confusion and last-minute fights at the stations.
●Organise the drivers: Drivers must see the importance of unity. Through their unions, they can negotiate for bulk fuel discounts, affordable spare parts and health insurance.
Government must listen, GPRTU must lead with courage, and drivers must unite. Only then can we have a transport system where the driver is treated fairly, the passenger pays a fair fare, and the nation moves forward.
Let us remember; if the driver suffers, every passenger suffers too.
Evans Baidoo.
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