The Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union has initiated an indefinite sit-down strike, calling for improved conditions of service.
The drivers highlighted a proposed policy framework aimed at boosting their salaries and improving working conditions, which has been awaiting approval on the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) board’s table since November 2023.
Despite persistent efforts to secure approval, the NPA board has yet to vote on the framework for implementation, according to the frustrated drivers.
Sunday Alabi, Vice President of the Ghana National Petroleum Tanker Drivers Union, revealed to the media on Tuesday, May 21 that a petition was forwarded to the Presidency for endorsement of the policy framework, but they await a response and until the framework receives approval, the drivers vow to maintain the strike.
“We wrote a petition to the Presidency last week to have the framework approved but we have not heard anything yet and that is why we are embarking on the sit-down strike because the livelihood of our drivers is so bad”, he said.
Alabi also emphasized the dire circumstances faced by the drivers, stating, “Just like the saying goes, ‘electricity no get leg, ebe copper wire wey dey carry am go,’ the petroleum downstream sector does not have a leg; it is the tanker drivers that carry it.”
He stressed the necessity for equitable treatment and asserted that work will not resume until the framework is approved.
“The petroleum downstream sector does not have legs; it is the tanker drivers that carry it. We cannot be suffering while others enjoy. Therefore, as long as they refuse to approve the framework, we will not resume work.”
Source: Comfort Sweety Hayford/ATLFMNEWS
