The Minority Caucus in Parliament has firmly opposed the proposed amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180), which would permit Members of Parliament (MPs) to use sirens and exempt them from speed limits during official duties.
In a statement signed by the Minority Leader, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, the caucus expressed solidarity with the public in rejecting the amendment and called on the Minister for Transport to withdraw the LI before it becomes law.
The Minority emphasized that the government should prioritize urgent issues such as the high cost of living, food inflation, unemployment, high fuel prices, the cedi’s depreciation, and the burdensome tax regime driving businesses to neighboring West African countries.
“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.
“The government must redirect its attention to addressing the germane issues facing the people of Ghana at the moment such as the high cost of living, food inflation, unemployment, high cost of fuel, the depreciation of the Cedi and the high tax regime which is forcing businesses to relocate to neighbouring countries in West Africa.
“Finally, we call on the Minister of Transport to immediately withdraw the said Legislative Instrument before it matures into law after 21 sitting days.
In contrast, MP Andy Appiah-Kubi defended the proposed amendment, arguing that it aims to enhance productivity and ensure MPs arrive on time to Parliament, considering the heavy traffic conditions in Accra.
