The Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) issued a stern warning to commercial transport operators on Monday, declaring that any fare charged outside the approved rates will be met with prosecution and public disclosure of offenders. The announcement came during a meeting with leaders of 24 registered transport unions in the metropolis, part of KMA’s quarterly engagement with transport operators.
Head of KMA’s Transport Department, Randy Wilson, explained that the new stance follows a recent General Assembly resolution to prepare for the Christmas season. He said the old practice of simply impounding vehicles and levying fines was insufficient, and that the Assembly now intends to prosecute drivers and, where appropriate, vehicle owners. “We will publish the names of those prosecuted to serve as a deterrent,” Wilson told the unions.
Wilson also directed all unions and routes that had unilaterally increased fares before the official 8% increment to immediately revert to the original fare and apply the approved increase. He warned that any driver found in violation would have their vehicle arrested and prosecuted, and that taskforces would be deployed across major terminals and loading points to monitor compliance.
Joseph Mensah, Ashanti Regional Chairman of the Progressive Transport Owners’ Association and leader of the 24 registered unions, backed the Assembly’s move. He blamed unregulated trotro operators for unapproved fares and short‑short loading, practices that tarnish the image of law‑abiding unions. Mensah called for KMA to issue stickers for all registered commercial vehicles belonging to recognised unions to help expose non‑union operators.
Other officials, including National Road Safety Authority Regional Director Kwasi Agyenim Boateng and Metro Coordinating Director Francis Dwira Darko, urged operators to prioritise road safety compliance and highlighted the importance of continuous engagement to improve mobility across Kumasi.
Moving forward, KMA will enforce the new rules strictly, with the aim of restoring discipline on the roads and ensuring fair fare practices before the busy Christmas period.
