The Commercial National Motor Riders Union has raised concerns that steep registration and licence fees could hinder government efforts to legalise commercial motorbike operations in Ghana.
In a statement, the union welcomed the recent approval of amendments to the Road Traffic Regulations Bill by Cabinet, which, if passed by Parliament, will make okada operations lawful by the end of the year. However, riders insist that the current costs of motorbike number plate registration and riding licences remain prohibitively high.
“The merit of legalising our business is just as crucial as addressing affordability,” the union said. They are calling for a 70 percent reduction in registration fees, alongside lower charges for riding licences, warning that failure to address these costs could undermine government initiatives.
READ: Okada riders urge gov’t to reduce motorbike registration fees by 70%
Transport Minister, Joseph Nikpi Bukari, had earlier announced that the new law will require riders to hold a licence for passenger transport, ensure their motorbikes meet safety standards, and belong to recognised unions responsible for training and certification in partnership with the DVLA.
The union’s statement urged President John Dramani Mahama and relevant authorities to consider the financial burden on riders, stressing that high costs could stall compliance and delay full legalisation.
“If these concerns are ignored, the entire efforts made by government regarding okada operations will not be appreciated as expected,” the release warned.
Below is a copy of the statement:
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
