Port Transport Drivers Threaten Strike Over New Regulatory Policies

Members of the Joint Association of Port Transport Drivers (JAPTU) have announced plans to embark on a sit-down strike from April 14 to 17, citing what they describe as unfair regulatory measures introduced by the Ghana Shippers Authority.

The union, which represents more than 11,000 drivers operating within the port enclave, warns that the action will proceed unless the government intervenes to address their concerns.

Dispute Over New Directives

According to JAPTU, the newly introduced policies impose additional fees and operational protocols that conflict with long-standing systems drivers have followed without issue.

The group argues that the directives disregard established structures within the association and could significantly disrupt operations and livelihoods across the port transport sector.

Call for Government Intervention

Speaking in an interview on Saturday, April 11, National Chairman of JAPTU, Shamsu Babayaro, urged the government to step in and direct the Ghana Shippers Authority to reverse the policy immediately.

“From the 14th of this month, we are going to do a sit-down strike up to the 17th. But if the government engages us and there is a clear understanding, we can withdraw the strike,” he stated.

He further rejected the proposed charges and directives, describing them as unacceptable to members of the union.

“The charges they are asking us to pay, we won’t accept. The information being given to us—we didn’t agree to it. What the Road Ministry is proposing is also not acceptable. We don’t understand it, and we won’t agree,” he added.

Growing Frustration Among Drivers

Some members of the union have also expressed frustration over the situation, pointing to increasing operational burdens and uncertainty within the sector.

Drivers say the new system, including a proposed re-registration exercise, has been introduced without adequate consultation.

“We are asking the government to call the Ghana Shippers Authority to order. The re-registration should either be abolished or reviewed through proper engagement with us,” one member said.

Potential Impact

If carried out, the planned strike could disrupt activities within the port enclave, affecting cargo movement and supply chains.

The union, however, maintains that it remains open to dialogue and is willing to suspend the strike if authorities engage them and address their concerns.