The Bono Regional Chairman of the Motor Tricycle Owners and Riders Association, Nana Alhaji British Man, is calling on the government to reconsider the newly introduced age restriction that bars individuals under 25 from operating commercial motorcycles, commonly known as okada, in Ghana.
Speaking in an interview with Wenchi-based Radio West Africa monitored by kumasimail.com Nana Alhaji British Man welcomed the government’s efforts to legalize and regulate the okada business.
However, he expressed strong opposition to the age-related restriction, describing it as unfair and inconsistent with the rights afforded to Ghanaian citizens under the 1992 Constitution.
“Article 28 of the 1992 Constitution defines a child as someone below 18 years of age. Every citizen who is 18 or older and of sound mind has the right to vote and participate in public elections and referenda,” he argued.
“Why must someone who is eligible to vote at 18 be restricted from operating a commercial motorcycle until they are 25?” he questioned.
Nana Alhaji British Man urged the government to reverse the age restriction, emphasizing that many young people depend on okada riding as a means of livelihood. He further called on the government to prioritize safety regulations and ensure that riders adhere to best practices to minimize the risks associated with the trade.
He concluded by reiterating the association’s commitment to supporting regulatory measures that promote safety, but insisted that such policies should not marginalize young, responsible riders seeking economic empowerment.
Source: www.kumasimail.com /Nana Anfreh Damanata
