John Dramani Mahama, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has reaffirmed his commitment to legalizing the operations of commercial motorbike riders, popularly known as “Okada,” if elected in the 2024 general elections.
Mahama addressed motor riders in Ashaiman on Friday, May 31, 2024, and stated that the party’s 2024 manifesto includes the legalization of Okada activities.
He criticized the current government for failing to fulfill its promise of replacing motorbikes with cars, labeling it as a broken promise and a lie.
Mahama pointed out that the legalization of Okada was included in the NDC’s previous manifesto, but it was not fulfilled due to their defeat in the 2020 general elections.
He expressed concern over the country’s unemployment rate, which has risen to 14.7% under the current government, compared to 8.5% when he left office in 2016.
Mahama noted that if the Okada business were abolished, the unemployment rate would have jumped higher to 25%, emphasizing the importance of legalizing and regulating the industry.
He cited the example of East Africa, where Okada has been legalized and is working successfully, and assured that the NDC will legalize and regulate it in a safe and secure manner.
Mahama urged motorbike riders to comply with the rules that will be implemented under the next NDC government and promised to assist those without licenses to obtain them.
He emphasized the importance of safety and security, stating that the National Road Safety Commission (NRSC) will train riders on how to ride safely, and riding instructors will be deployed to the regions.
Mahama concluded by declaring that the door to freedom for Okada riders will be opened on January 7, 2025, when he is sworn in as President, and urged riders to inform their unions in the regions about the NDC’s promise to legalize the Okada business.
