Tricycle operators in Techiman rally as gov't moves to legalise 'Okada' trade

Hundreds of tricycle operators in Techiman attended a sensitisation exercise. The government is working to legalise commercial motorcycles (okada) and tricycles (pragya). This move fulfills a key presidential campaign promise.

The National Union of Tricycle Operators has started a nationwide sensitisation campaign. They aim to act before the government's timelines.

National Chairman Hamza Hafiz spoke at the Techiman rally. He said, "We won’t wait passively."

Hamza highlighted the daily harassment faced by members. Police seize bikes for minor violations and extort bribes. He emphasized that legalization must bring dignity to operators.

Key reforms include mandatory safety training and licensing. A unified insurance scheme for operators is also needed. Designated parking and pickup zones are part of the proposal.

The rally addressed an urgent issue: substance abuse among drivers. Techiman Vice Chairman Fuseini Salifu shared concerns from passengers. He noted that some drivers smoke marijuana before shifts, leading to dangerous behavior.

Another operator, Asiedu Emmanuel, 34, described his experience with police harassment. He stated that officers assume all okada riders use drugs. He called for laws to distinguish responsible drivers from those harming their reputation.

Union leaders plan to include drug education in training modules. They are also partnering with health NGOs for rehabilitation support.

As the rally concluded, operators discussed the new legislative instrument set to legalize their trade. The path ahead is challenging but filled with hope for change.