A tense standoff erupted at the Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU) Secretariat in Ho, Volta Region, after the National Executive Committee (NEC) intervened to replace longstanding executives with newly elected leaders. The former leadership of Branch 2, led by Michael Sonkro, has refused to vacate their roles despite new officers being elected over two years ago. The resulting impasse led the NEC to send a team to enforce the transition on November 13, 2024.
The situation quickly escalated into a confrontation as the NEC’s delegation faced resistance from Felix Kpor, the former second trustee, and other supporters of the previous administration. The altercation culminated in a chaotic scene, prompting local police to step in and deescalate the situation. Subsequently, representatives from both parties and the Volta Regional Police Command entered a closed-door meeting to discuss potential resolutions and a peaceful transition strategy
Background and Reasons for the Conflict
The protracted standoff between the former and current executives originated in April 2022, when union members raised concerns about the extended tenure of the former leadership. The previous executives, led by Sonkro, were criticized for remaining in office beyond the standard four-year term, sparking frustration and demands for change. This ultimately led to a NEC-supervised election in which Sonkro and his administration were replaced. However, four key members of the old administration, including Vice Chairman Pascal Anledo, abstained from the election, later rejecting its outcome and refusing to hand over power.
In December 2023, the NEC took a definitive step by officially dismissing the former officials, invoking Article 3(b) of the GPRTU constitution. This clause mandates that all members adhere to the Union’s policies and directives. Despite the NEC’s decision, the previous executives remained firm, refusing to relinquish control.
The NEC’s patience with the situation ran out in October 2024, leading to a formal decision to evict the former officials from their posts. This decision was intended to solidify the authority of the newly elected officials and restore stability within the GPRTU Ho Branch.
Efforts for Resolution
Despite NEC’s efforts, resistance from the former administration remains strong. The Volta Regional Police’s involvement underscores the need for a peaceful and lawful resolution, as the prolonged power struggle has negatively impacted the union’s operations and, by extension, transport services in the region.
The NEC aims to prioritize the interests of the union and its members by supporting legitimate leadership transitions. This intervention reflects NEC's commitment to enforcing its rules and upholding the election results that reflect the will of the members.
The Path Forward
As both parties meet with police officials, a resolution remains uncertain. However, NEC and union members hope for a swift settlement to allow the new leadership to focus on their mandate and address the region's pressing transport challenges.
The NEC’s decisive stance underscores its commitment to enforcing accountability and leadership standards within the GPRTU. For the broader membership and the public, this transition represents an opportunity to strengthen governance within the transport sector.
This unfolding scenario highlights the importance of adherence to constitutional mandates in ensuring a stable union.
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