In a bold move that underscores the growing divide between public sentiment and legislative action, the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Minority Caucus has issued a directive to its members to vehemently oppose the proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180).
The amendments, introduced in Parliament by the Hon. Minister of Transport on 14th June 2024, have sparked significant public outcry. At the heart of the controversy lies the inclusion of provisions within the Legislative Instrument that would allow certain public officials, notably Ministers of State and Members of Parliament, to use sirens while driving and exempt them from liability for exceeding speed limits.
“We understand that the broader purpose of the regulations was to bring the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180) up to speed on many matters relating to the registration and licensing of motor vehicles.”
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minority Leader in Parliament
This aspect of the proposed amendments has been met with significant public condemnation, highlighting concerns over equality before the law and the potential misuse of power.
The report of the Subsidiary Legislation Committee is yet to be brought to the floor for debate and discussion. Nevertheless, the NDC Minority Caucus pre-emptively signaled its opposition.
The NDC Minority Caucus, recognizing the depth of public sentiment on this matter, has made it clear that they stand in solidarity with the Ghanaian public. They have instructed all their members on the relevant committee to strongly oppose these amendments at the committee level.
Furthermore, all 137 NDC Members of Parliament have been directed to vote en bloc against the Legislative Instrument when it comes to the floor for debate and discussion.
Call for Government to Focus on Pressing Issues
Beyond their opposition to the controversial amendments, the NDC Minority Caucus further called upon the government to refocus its efforts on addressing pressing issues currently faced by the citizens of Ghana.
“These include the high cost of living, food inflation, unemployment, escalating fuel prices, the depreciation of the Cedi, and an increasingly burdensome tax regime that threatens to drive businesses across borders to neighboring countries in West Africa.”
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minority Leader in Parliament
The Caucus argued that these challenges demand immediate attention and action from the government, rather than focusing on legislative measures that appear to prioritize the privileges of public officials over the welfare of the general populace.
“We call on the Minister of Transport to immediately withdraw the said Legislative Instrument before it matures into law after 21 sitting days.”
Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, Minority Leader in Parliament
The NDC Minority Caucus also argued that allowing such provisions to become law would not only undermine public trust in governance but also exacerbate existing social and economic challenges.
The proposed amendment has not only raised concerns about road safety and equality but has also sparked a broader debate about the priorities of the government. Many Ghanaians feel that the focus on providing exemptions for public officials is misplaced, especially at a time when the country is grappling with significant economic challenges.
The proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180) raise significant concerns regarding their potential impact on road safety in Ghana.
The expansion of speed limit exemptions and the granting of privileges to public officials could lead to increased risks of accidents, erosion of public trust, potential misuse of privileges, and a diversion of resources from other critical road safety initiatives.
It is crucial for policymakers to carefully consider these implications and prioritize measures that enhance overall road safety and public welfare.
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