Mr John Dramani Mahama, the flag bearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) has disclosed that he will establish pension schemes for drivers. He made this known when he met with executives of the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) in Accra, as part of his campaign for the upcoming December 7 elections.
“One of the key issues I brought to the table was the establishment of a pension scheme for our hardworking commercial drivers.
“This has been a long-standing priority for my party and I am unwavering in my commitment to making this a reality during my upcoming presidency”, he disclosed
During this meeting, Mr Mahama emphasised the essential role of the GPRTU in Ghana’s transport sector, highlighting its contribution to handling nearly 90% of road transportation.
Mr. Mahama acknowledged the GPRTU’s crucial role in mobilising drivers and transport owners, expressing profound gratitude for their efforts.
He noted, “The GPRTU is the backbone of road transportation in Ghana and it was important for me to hear their concerns and ideas.”
Reiterating his party’s commitment to its past initiatives, Mahama lamented the delay in realising certain proposals, particularly a pension scheme for drivers.
“One of the key issues I brought to the table was the establishment of a Pension Scheme for our hardworking commercial drivers. This has been a long-standing priority for my party and I am unwavering in my commitment to making this a reality during my upcoming presidency,” Mahama stated.
He underscored the importance of ensuring social security for drivers in their retirement years, emphasising his dedication to their welfare.
The NDC flagbearer also promised to ensure the formation partnerships between the GPRTU, the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs), or private investors to modernise and maintain transport terminals and lorry parks.
“We also discussed modernising transport terminals and lorry parks. The GPRTU could partner with MMDAs or private investors to build and maintain these facilities and share revenue from their management,” he explained, promising improvements for the transport industry.
Additionally, Mahama pledged to institute a drivers’ day to honour long years of accident-free driving at the district, regional and national levels.
“Recognising safe driving is crucial. Celebrating drivers who maintain accident-free records will motivate others to follow suit,” he remarked.
These commitments align with Mahama’s vision to “Build the Ghana we want together.”
His engagement with the GPRTU is part of a broader effort to outline his policies and initiatives to the electorate.
As the election approaches, similar interactions with various groups are expected to continue, reinforcing his campaign message.