Daniel Asuku, a Public Safety Advocate, believes allowing Members of Parliament (MPs) and judges to use sirens is a positive step but fears that implementation will be problematic.
According to him, the use of sirens will fast-track the activities of the MPs but the poor condition of the country’s roads makes speeding on them dangerous.
Speaking on Ahotor FM, Mr. Asuku urged MPs to prioritize fixing the roads before addressing other issues.
Following a public debate on why MPs should not be exempt from traffic congestion like all other road users, the Minority Caucus in Parliament has urged the Minister of Transport to immediately withdraw the proposed Legislative Instrument (L.I.) before it becomes law in 21 days.
The proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180), were laid in Parliament by the Minister of Transport on June 14, 2024.
Among these amendments are provisions granting certain public officials, including Ministers of State and Members of Parliament, the privilege to use sirens and exceed speed limits without penalty.
Only the President, Vice President, ambulances, and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) have the privilege to use sirens and exceed speed limits.
MPs want to be added to this list and have proposed that the Legislative Instrument be amended to include them.
Mr. Asuku called on MPs to focus on resolving the underlying issues so that all road users can travel safely and comfortably, rather than seeking exemptions for themselves.
LISTEN TO DANIEL ASUKU IN THE AUDIO BELOW:
Story by: Emmanuel Romeo Tetteh (#RomeoWrites) / Ahotoronline.com
