Mahama Ayariga, the Member of Parliament for Bawku Central, expressed strong opposition to a proposed Legislative Instrument (LI) that seeks to exempt certain public officials, including ministers and MPs, from traffic regulations, including speed limits and the use of sirens.

Ayariga, in a press briefing today, revealed that many lawmakers, including himself, were unaware of the details of the regulation as it has not yet been formally presented to Parliament.

He empathized with public outrage over the proposal, stating, “We are responsible for delivering an effective and efficient public transport system. We have woefully failed in our responsibility, and now we are seeking to exempt ourselves from the suffering that ordinary taxpayers endure.”

The MP highlighted the significant traffic congestion in the capital, which forces citizens to spend a large portion of their salaries on fuel.

He argued that instead of addressing these critical transportation issues, the political elite appears focused on granting themselves privileges that further alienate them from the struggles of the average citizen

.Ayariga pointed out that while the LI may contain legitimate provisions, the exemption of politicians from traffic regulations undermines public trust.

“Why should we, who have failed to improve the public transport system, now seek to exempt ourselves from the consequences of our failures?” he questioned.

He revealed that the leadership of the opposition has called for members to vote against the proposal and urged the responsible minister to withdraw the LI. “This provision should be aborted,” Ayariga insisted, emphasizing that all government officials should share in the burdens faced by citizens.

As the debate over the proposed regulation unfolds, Ayariga’s comments reflect growing concern within Parliament about maintaining accountability and ensuring that public officials remain attuned to the needs and challenges of the citizens they serve.

The discourse surrounding the LI continues to evolve, with public sentiment likely to play a critical role in shaping its outcome.