Tricycle operators call for legalization as tensions rise over KMA ban

The National Union of Tricycle Operators in Ghana has renewed its call for President John Mahama’s administration to legalize the operation of commercial tricycles in the country.

The union argues that the new government made a commitment to address the issue during its campaign, and they are now urging the administration to fulfil this promise.

According to the group, legalizing commercial tricycles would bring much-needed order to the sector, provide a safer environment for operators and passengers, and contribute to reducing the rising unemployment rate among Ghanaian youth.

They also emphasize the role of commercial tricycles in supporting livelihoods and easing transportation challenges in underserved areas, calling for swift action from the government to formalize their operations.

“With Tricycles, we face enormous challenges and one of the challenges has to do with legalization we are so happy that the new administration has already pledged, we have had countless meetings with the manifesto committee of the NDC and their commitment to legalize tricycle operation in the country, and we are looking forward to the fulfilment of that pledge.

“Not just the legalization but also we are looking at partnering with the new government to make sure that all the structures that we are having across the country are strengthened to lead the government to legalize it.”

Meanwhile, in 2023, the Kumasi Metropolitan Assembly (KMA) issued a directive banning commercial tricycles from operating in certain parts of the city.

The move sparked widespread protests from tricycle operators, who argue that the ban is detrimental to their livelihoods.

The directive is still in effect, but former Kumasi Mayor Samuel Pyne has called on his successor to maintain the ban, despite pressure from operators to have it overturned.

“When we banned the tricycles from plying within the central present business district, I don’t think our predecessors should come and vary the decision of the assembly. Because if you had walked through the city this Christmas, though we had traffic, it was better with their presence not being felt there.”