The Minority Leader in Parliament, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, has called on the Minister for Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, to withdraw the controversial amendment to the Road Traffic Regulations 2012.
This directive aligns with the Minority’s firm stance against the Legislative Instrument (L.I.) aimed at granting MPs and Ministers of State privileges reserved for emergency vehicles.
The proposed L.I., currently under parliamentary review, seeks to amend Regulation 74 of L.I. 2180, permitting the installation of sirens or bells on vehicles owned by Supreme Court justices, MPs, and Ministers of State.
Proponents argue this change will enhance the efficiency of government officials, who often face tight schedules necessitating rapid travel between meetings and official duties.
However, this amendment has ignited substantial debate. While some advocate for its potential to improve governmental operations, others express concerns over the broader implications of extending such privileges to elected officials.
In a press statement dated July 16, Dr. Forson made it clear that the NDC Minority Caucus opposes the amendment.
“We have instructed all our Members on the Committee to strongly oppose it at the committee level. We have also directed all 137 NDC Members of Parliament to vote en bloc against the Legislative Instrument when it is brought to the floor,” he asserted.
Dr. Forson emphasized that the government should prioritize addressing the critical issues currently facing Ghanaians, such as the high cost of living, food inflation, unemployment, the high cost of fuel, the depreciation of the cedi, and a burdensome tax regime driving businesses to relocate to neighboring West African countries.
“The government must redirect its attention to addressing the germain issues facing the people of Ghana at the moment,” he urged.
The Subsidiary Legislation Committee has yet to present its report on the proposed amendment for parliamentary debate and discussion. However, the Minority’s clear opposition signals a significant challenge to the amendment’s passage.
In addition to opposing the L.I., NDC MPs have urged the Minister of Transport to withdraw the Legislative Instrument before it matures into law after 21 sitting days.