A proposed Transport Recapitalization Policy by the next New Patriotic Party administration, Vice President Dr. Mahmudu Bawumia has stated will serve as a better alternative to the legalization of commercial motorbike transport popularly called Okada.
This policy according to Vice President Dr. Mahmudu Bawumia will offer ordinary Ghanaians the opportunity in the transport sector to own brand new vehicles assembled in Ghana.
Former President John Dramani Mahama has indicated his resolve to legalize Okada in Ghana if elected as President in the December polls.
He argued that the legalization and regulation of the business in the transport sector will create thousands of sustainable jobs for Ghanaians.
However, Dr. Mahmudu Bawumia in an interview on Tamale based Fiila fm monitored by dreamzfmonline.com described Okada as a risky venture in the wake of high rates of accidents.
He explained that the Transport Recapitalization Policy is aimed at making available brand new saloon cars and buses on lease or high purchase to interested persons who wish to acquire them for the purposes of commercial transportation.
“The policy will give you the option whether you are a driver or motor rider who wants a bus. You can go for it and pay in instalments. We are talking about brand new vehicles. That will significantly reduce the accident rates which is largely caused by old and rickety vehicles. This is a better option than the risky okada,” Dr. Bawumia said.
The Vice President noted that the policy will cover purchases of tricycles popularly called ‘yellow yellow’ which can be accessed by okada owners and riders.
“We hear our friends in the NDC want to legalize okada but for us this is a better option,” he added.
