Government Withdraws Controversial Siren and Speed Limit Exemption Bill
- Govt withdraws proposed LI
- Critics argued that the amendment was unnecessary
- The withdrawal is seen as a public victory
The Minister for Local Government and Rural Development, Martin Adjei Mensah Korsah, has officially withdrawn a proposed Legislative Instrument (L.I.) that sought to grant privileges to Members of Parliament, Judges, and Ministers to use sirens and exempt them from speed limits while on official duties.
The proposed amendment to the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (LI 2180) faced significant backlash from the public and various stakeholders, including the Minority Caucus in Parliament.
Critics argued that the amendment was unnecessary and inappropriate, given the pressing issues facing the nation.
In a formal statement on the floor of Parliament, Martin Adjei Mensah Korsah announced the withdrawal, acknowledging the concerns raised by the public and stakeholders.
The Minority Caucus, led by Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, had been vocal in their opposition to the L.I., directing their members to vote against it and calling for its immediate withdrawal.
The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin, had also denied any knowledge of the Legislative Instrument, clarifying that Parliament lacks the constitutional power to amend regulations.
The withdrawal of the bill is seen as a victory for the public and stakeholders who opposed the controversial proposal.