Rein in misconduct among operators – Naana Jane to transport leaders

Vice President Professor Naana Jane Opoku-Agyeman has urged transport leaders to rein in misconduct among operators, warning that exploitative practices against passengers will not be tolerated.

She made the call during a crunch meeting at the Transport Ministry on Friday morning with Transport Minister Joseph Nikpe Bukari and representatives of transport unions.

The Vice President said leaders must take responsibility for the conduct of drivers and mates, particularly as public frustration continues to mount.

“So, please, with all respect, I want you, as leaders, to monitor your membership in order to prevent unnecessary negative comments and outcomes,” Prof Opoku-Agyeman said. She stressed that passengers deserve to be treated fairly and respectfully at all times.

Her remarks come amid widespread reports of bus operators charging higher than usual fares during peak hours, especially across major transport hotspots in Accra.

Areas such as Lapaz, Madina, Accra Central and Kaneshie have recorded frequent complaints from commuters who say they are being unfairly exploited.

In some cases, drivers reportedly collect fares to a point along a route and then ask passengers to alight and pay another fare to continue the journey.

Commuters have roundly criticised the practice as selfish and insensitive, accusing operators of taking advantage of the daily struggles of workers, students and traders.

“We want to ensure that no passenger feels exploited, whether through fares, queues, or even lapses in safety protocols,” the Vice President said. “Fairness, transparency and accountability must guide everything that we do.”

She urged operators to improve communication with passengers and avoid conduct that fuels anger and mistrust.

“I encourage that we also communicate clearly, fairly and respectfully with our passengers, or the people who patronise our businesses,” she added.

Prof Opoku-Agyeman also said government is committed to supporting the transport sector while expecting higher standards in return.

“I want to pledge that the government continues to provide the necessary support to improve the welfare of passengers and of drivers,” she noted.

She linked current transport challenges to poor road conditions and inadequate capacity, describing road repairs and system modernisation as critical interventions.

According to her, improving infrastructure and expanding services will reduce pressure on operators and ease commuter hardship.

The Vice President called for cooperation between government and transport unions to build a system that prioritises fairness, efficiency and excellence, saying respect for passengers is key to restoring public confidence in the transport sector.