Withdraw Bill on sirens, speed limit exemptions for ministers, MPs – BPS

High quality stock photo of a police siren light on the street in San Francisco.

The Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) is demanding that the Minister of Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah, immediately withdraw the Bill on speed limit exemptions for Members of Parliament and Ministers.

BPS has expressed concern over the amendments made to the Road Regulations Act LI 2180, which was subsequently laid before Parliament.

In a statement dated Sunday, July 14, BPS raised alarm over the expanding speed limit exemptions and other permissions granted to Members of Parliament and Ministers of State.

According to the Bureau of Public Safety, the amendment also permits the installation of sirens and alarms on their vehicles for official use.

BPS argues that allowing public officeholders to use these sirens, alarms, and strobe lights can lead to confusion and potential delays in genuine emergency responses, ultimately compromising public safety.

The Bureau of Public Safety further contends that these exemptions create unnecessary risks, which could lead to an increase in traffic crashes, injuries, and fatalities.

Therefore, it has called on the transport minister to withdraw the Bill from Parliament and expunge the exemptions and permissions before re-laying it.

“Consequently, the BPS calls upon the Transport minister to withdraw the Bill from Parliament with immediate effect and, cause the wide exemptions and permissions to be expunged before relaying it.”

Furthermore, the Bureau of Public Safety (BPS) has urged the National Road Safety Authority to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to combat the escalating use of illegal sirens on motor vehicles in the country.

BPS has called on the government to prioritize policies that promote public safety and uphold equality for all citizens.

“Additionally, the National Road Safety Authority, the state agency responsible for road safety, must collaborate with law enforcement agencies to curb the increasing use of illegal sirens on motor vehicles in the country.

“Furthermore, we urge the government to prioritise policies that enhance public safety, maintain equality, and uphold the integrity of our governance. Public office holders must lead by example, demonstrating a commitment to the rule of law, equality, and the safety of all citizens.”