Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) has declared its intention to join Organized Labour in a planned demonstration against the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on the domestic consumption of electricity. The demonstration is scheduled to take place on February 13, 2024, despite the government’s recent announcement of the suspension of the VAT.
In a statement released by the GPRTU, commuters of public transport have been advised to prepare themselves for disruptions in transportation services on the day of the demonstration. The Union has announced that no commercial vehicles under its umbrella will be offering services to passengers during the protest.
Abass Moro, the Industrial Relations Officer of the GPRTU, reiterated the Union’s commitment to the cause of Organized Labour, emphasizing that their leadership is demanding the complete scrapping of the 15% VAT on electricity without any compromise.
“We are part of Organized Labour. Our leadership says it doesn’t want any bargaining apart from striking out completely of the 15% VAT on electricity. This is all that our leadership says it wants,” Moro stated in an interview.
Organized Labour remains steadfast in its stance against the VAT on electricity, asserting that its call for the abolition of the tax is non-negotiable. Despite the government’s announcement of the suspension of the VAT, the union maintains that the tax must be completely scrapped.
The planned demonstration signifies the determination of Organized Labour and its affiliates, including the GPRTU, to advocate for the interests of the Ghanaian populace and address concerns regarding the affordability and accessibility of essential utilities.
As preparations for the demonstration continue, commuters are advised to make alternative transportation arrangements on February 13, 2024, due to the anticipated suspension of public transport services by the GPRTU and other participating unions.