Commercial drivers in Sunyani, the Bono Regional capital, are threatening to increase transport fares in response to the introduction of the levy, introduced under the Energy Sector Levies (Amendment) Act 1141, which imposes additional charges on petroleum products to support power sector stability and help address legacy debts.
The new tax, which takes effect from Wednesday, July 26, 2025 and imposes a GH¢1 charge per litre of petrol and diesel, has already stirred dissatisfaction among drivers, who argue that the tax will inevitably lead to a hike in fuel prices, further compounding the challenges they already face in their line of work.
Emphasising the need for an increase in transport fares, the drivers contend that the rise in fuel prices combined with the already high cost of lubricants, spare parts, tyres and insurance will make it nearly impossible for them to break even so the only viable way to remain in business is to adjust fares upward to cover the shortfall and sustain their operations.
“The fuel tax will worsen an already difficult situation, and I think the only option left for us in the coming days is for our leaders to consider an adjudgment in fuel prices so that we can continue to stay in business as drivers”, said Peter Opoku, a driver who plies the Sunyani–Wenchi route.
Another driver, Samuel Antwi, accuses the government of stabbing drivers in the back by introducing the new fuel tax, especially at a time when transport operators had already made sacrifices by reducing fares in response to earlier directives. He adds that the move feels like a betrayal, as drivers had hoped their efforts to support commuters and cushion the public would be recognised and appreciated by the authorities.
“We complied with fare reductions not long ago, even though it affected our income. And now, instead of some relief, we are being hit with another tax. This is not fair to us,” he lamented.
To avert the possible increase, the drivers are appealing to the government to consider a review of the tax in response to widespread public concerns, since a downward review or temporary suspension of the tax would go a long way in easing their burden, preventing potential fare hikes, and maintaining affordable transportation for the general public.
How Virtual Reality is enhancing business and customer experience
