The nuisance associated with government officials disturbing road users with their sirens seems to have gotten the attention of President Akufo-Addo who has directed some appointees to stop using sirens.
The Presidency has cautioned government appointees, including Ministers of State, against using sirens to weave through traffic whilst driving on the country’s roads.
In a letter dated May 19, the Office of the President cited Regulation 74 (3) of L.1 2180 as containing information on designated vehicles that can use sirens, “only designated vehicles listed in the law can use the sirens”, the Presidency said.
“Government vehicle used for official purposes by the Head of State, a police vehicle, fire service vehicle, ambulance, vehicle used by other recognized government security agencies and a bullion vehicle registered by the Licensing Authority can use sirens,” the letter said.
As such, Ministers and their deputies, Regional Ministers, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs), CEOs of government agencies and officials of the Presidency, unless otherwise designated, cannot abuse the use of sirens to enjoy an unmerited advantage over other road users.
According to the Presidency, any government appointee who will be caught acting contrary to the law, “is liable for prosecution.”
