Yaw Barima, Leader of the True Drivers Association, has lashed out at the Akufo-Addo administration, accusing the government of deceit and manipulation in its dealings with driver unions and associations.
Mr. Barima made these explosive remarks during a political talk show, *SE NO PEI,* on Think TV on Friday.
Describing the current administration as "professional tricksters," Barima expressed his frustration over the government's alleged dishonesty regarding the recent discussions on the increment of lorry fares.
According to him, the government falsely claimed to have engaged with various driver unions and associations on the matter.
“This government lied to Ghanaians, saying they had met with the various driver unions and associations on the increment of lorry fares,”
Mr. Barima stated emphatically. He went on to criticize the government’s narrative that it had asked the unions to hold off on fare increases because fuel prices had not risen by the 10% threshold that typically triggers fare adjustments.
He, however, dismissed these claims as false, revealing that no such meetings between the government and the driver unions had taken place.
“The various driver unions and associations have not met anyone in government,” he asserted, adding that the administration had initially scheduled a meeting to discuss the issue, only to postpone it at the last minute.
“We were scheduled to meet with the government to have discussions on this issue, but they told us that Bawumia was going to unveil his running mate, so the meeting was postponed. Till date, we are yet to have this so-called meeting,” Barima revealed.
In his scathing critique, Barima accused the government of being unfair to drivers, warning that this perceived mistreatment could have serious political repercussions.
He hinted that the frustration among drivers could translate into a loss of support for the ruling party in the upcoming December 7 Presidential and Parliamentary elections.
“If care is not taken, we may vote against the ruling party,” Barima cautioned.
His comments reflect a growing discontent among driver unions and associations, who feel sidelined and deceived by the current administration.
The label of "professional tricksters" underscores the deep mistrust that now exists between these groups and the government, with potential implications for the political landscape as the elections approach.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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