One of the most difficult challenges being faced by the public is the accessibility and affordability of transportation. The recent announcement of agreement between the government and the transport union is of concern to those who daily use public transport to travel to work or transport goods for sale. Increase in transport fares would lead to the increase of the burden of those who use such vehicles. It is therefore important for negotiations to increase transport fares to include consumer protection agencies or associations who should properly assess the impact such increases would have on the consumers.
There is no doubt that the public has been complaining of the accessibility and affordability of transport and many spend hours at bus stops. They need to have a voice when negotiation is taking place. Consumer protection agencies need to stand up and be counted. They need to take part, if they have not already taken part in the negotiation process, and defend the rights of the consumers without fear or favour, affection or ill will.
