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The Ghana Union of Traders’ Associations (GUTA) has strongly cautioned commercial driver groups against any attempts to forcibly evict traders and hawkers from bus stops and lorry stations. The warning, issued in a formal press statement on October 20, 2026, comes in response to recent threats from certain driver unions who have vowed to take matters into their own hands if the government does not intervene to clear these areas within seven days. GUTA has described such unilateral threats as unlawful and a potential source of unnecessary conflict between the two groups.
In its statement, GUTA emphasized that no private association or individual has the legal authority to forcibly remove traders from public spaces or designated transport hubs. The association argued that any attempt by drivers to execute their own eviction orders would bypass established legal procedures and undermine the rule of law. While acknowledging the complexities of managing congestion at bus stops, the traders' union maintained that only state authorities have the mandate to regulate trading activities and maintain order in public thoroughfares.
The friction between transport operators and informal traders has been a recurring issue, as driver groups often express frustration over the overcrowding caused by hawkers at terminals and roadside stops. However, GUTA has urged the drivers to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could lead to violence or disruption of commercial activities. The association pointed out that many traders rely on these high-traffic areas for their livelihoods and that a collaborative, lawful approach is necessary to address the concerns of all stakeholders.
Moving forward, GUTA is calling for immediate government intervention to mediate the brewing tension and find a sustainable solution. The association has urged driver unions to abandon their seven-day ultimatum and instead engage with the relevant municipal and district authorities to address their grievances. By advocating for dialogue and adherence to the law, GUTA hopes to prevent potential clashes and ensure that any reorganization of public spaces is conducted fairly and legally.