The proposal by Parliament to amend portions of the Road Traffic Regulations 2012, allowing Ministers and MPs to use sirens in cars and drive without speed limits in the new L.I., presents significant demerits. The nuisance associated with the use of sirens by these government officials is so overwhelming that, in 2021, President Akufo-Addo banned the use of sirens by government officials and appointees. It is therefore unsettling that Parliament is seeking new changes which, when passed, will grant Members of Parliament (MPs) and Ministers of State privileges previously reserved for emergency and specialized vehicles.
While CDS Africa does not entirely oppose the use of sirens by MPs, it takes a strong position against the lack of adherence to road safety laws, particularly concerning the observance of speed limits under the law. We are greatly disappointed with the limitless and free range given to MPs through the amendment of the L.I., disregarding safety concerns which will endanger the lives of the public, including the MPs themselves.
Deliberations and discussions among members of Parliament clearly show that quite a number of them, including the sector minister, are opposed to the amendment of the L.I. The Africa Center for Democracy and Socioeconomic Development, CDS Africa, believes that using sirens and high-speed driving by government officials will lead to erratic driving behaviors, resulting in collisions. This will further increase accident risks, endangering official vehicle occupants and other road users.=
Granting such privileges to state officials fosters impunity, where government officials are seen as above the law. This results in inequality, as ordinary citizens are expected to follow traffic rules and face penalties for violations while government officials are exempt. As directed by Regulation 74(2) of L.I. 2180, ambulances and fire service vehicles are permitted to use sirens. However, the proposed changes, which will allow the “unnecessary” use of sirens by non-emergency vehicles, have the potential to disrupt emergency services and cause panic among other drivers. As an advocate of SDG Goal 10, which seeks to reduce inequality within and among countries, CDS Africa believes that these proposed changes must be reviewed.
CDS Africa joins its voice to calls by a section of Ghanaians and MPs that the proposed amendment be withdrawn as soon as possible before it matures and is eventually passed into law. The use of sirens and driving without speed limits is not only detrimental on multiple fronts but also has the potential to endanger public safety, promote social inequality, and encourage reckless behavior. Policymakers must prioritize the welfare and safety of all citizens by ensuring that traffic laws apply equally to everyone, regardless of their position.
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