A renowned morning show host on Fabea FM in Nkoranza, Apiah-Kubi, has criticized drivers in the area for refusing to comply with the Ghana Private Road Transport Union’s (GPRTU) directive to reduce transport fares by 15%.
According to Apiah-Kubi, despite the union’s agreement to the reduction proposal, some drivers are making excuses, citing high costs of spare parts and other items.
Apiah-Kubi accused the drivers of hypocrisy, noting that they only consider fuel price hikes when increasing transport fares, but ignore other factors like spare parts costs when asked to reduce fares.
“The drivers who are refusing to reduce transport fares are hypocrites,” he lamented.
“They always point to fuel prices as the reason for increasing fares, but when it’s time to reduce fares, they suddenly remember other expenses”, he added.
However, Apiah-Kubi noted that some drivers have already reduced their transport fares, and those refusing to do so are in the minority.
“I think they want to play politics with it,” he opined, suggesting that the refusal to reduce fares may be motivated by ulterior motives. “It’s unfortunate that some drivers are putting their interests above the welfare of the passengers.”
Apiah-Kubi emphasized that drivers should be consistent in their approach to fare adjustments and comply with the union’s directive.
He believes that the refusal to reduce fares will negatively impact passengers, who are already struggling with economic challenges.
“Passengers are already feeling the pinch of the economic situation, and the refusal to reduce fares will only add to their burden,” he said.
Apiah-Kubi’s comments have sparked a debate among residents in Nkoranza, with some calling for the drivers to comply with the union’s directive.
“It’s only fair that drivers reduce their fares when the cost of fuel and other expenses decrease. They should be considerate of the passengers and not just think about their profits.”
Others, however, have defended the drivers, saying that they have legitimate expenses that need to be covered. “Drivers also have bills to pay and families to feed,” said one driver. “They can’t just reduce fares without considering their own needs.”
In conclusion, Apiah-Kubi noted that the refusal of some drivers to reduce transport fares despite the GPRTU’s directive will be a form of disrespect.
Source: Apiah-Kubi
