The transportation system in the Greater Accra Region remains a critical concern for commuters and drivers, with experts warning of a worsening crisis.
As the 2024 elections approach, Channel One News’ Sheba Araba Bennin examines whether transport policies could influence voter decisions and if political parties are genuinely prioritizing this pressing issue.
During peak hours in Accra, transportation challenges come to the fore, with commuters enduring long waits at bus stops and scrambling for seats. For private vehicle users, traffic congestion, pothole-riddled roads, and rising fuel costs add to the daily struggle.
Nii Commey, a commuter from Kasoa, lamented: “Commuting is dreadful; you can set off at 5 a.m. and still arrive in Accra as late as 10 a.m. The delays are due to heavy traffic, but the exact causes remain unclear.”
Transportation policies have been central to political manifestos, often framed as solutions to cost-of-living challenges. However, their impact remains questionable.
In 2020, the NPP pledged to enhance road infrastructure through toll financing but faced backlash after abolishing road tolls in 2022. The party also promised to revive Metro Mass Transit, implement urban traffic decongestion policies, and develop ports and landing sites. For 2024, the NPP adds introducing electric vehicles and reducing fuel costs via the Gold for Oil policy to its agenda.
The NDC, meanwhile, has consistently emphasized railway development, inland water transportation, road safety, and the legalization of okada. For 2024, the party promises to revive the Tema Oil Refinery to lower fuel costs, decongest traffic, and bring back the struggling Aayalolo bus system.
Smaller parties, like the Movement for Change, have also presented transport-focused proposals, though their reach remains limited.
Despite these promises, many voters remain unconvinced. Sammy Gyimah expressed scepticism:
“I don’t resonate with any of the policies. Politicians forget their promises once in power.”
Nii Commey echoed similar frustrations: “We are tired of empty promises. We need action, not just words.”
Kwesi Atani criticized the Gold for Oil policy, stating: “Gold is more valuable than fuel. Bawumia should have implemented these policies long ago. They don’t seem to take us seriously.”
While political parties outline ambitious plans, many Ghanaians attribute the country’s transportation woes to poor implementation and a lack of maintenance culture. As election day nears, whether these promises can sway voters remains uncertain, with many demanding tangible results over rhetoric.
Richard Anamoo, Representative of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Professionals Forum, said, “TOR will be reinstated and resourced to make sure they have the capacity and means to produce the necessary fuel for the country. A lot of fuel issues has got to do with government taxes and JM says all these will be removed.”
Alan Kyerematen, Flagbearer for Movement for Change, stated, “A complete overhaul of the public transportation and rapid mass transit systems in Accra. Inner city traffic decongestion and effective traffic management in Accra. Reconstruction of Accra Town roads and community streets.”
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