‘Prioritise road safety in campaign strategies’
By Christabel Oboshie ANNNAN, Accra
The National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) has urged political parties to place road safety at the forefront of their governance agendas, especially as the nation approaches the December elections. Recognizing the critical importance of protecting the lives of citizens—who are also voters—the NRSA is calling on political parties to integrate robust road safety measures into their manifestos and campaign strategies.
This appeal was made during the launch of the NRSA’s Road Safety Code of Practice for Political Parties, a comprehensive guide designed to assist parties in managing campaign activities in a manner that ensures public safety. The code emphasizes the need for political parties to collaborate with law enforcement agencies, particularly the Ghana Police Service, to prevent traffic disruptions and reduce the risk of road accidents during election rallies and events.
The Code of Practice, developed in collaboration with key stakeholders such as the Electoral Commission, civil society organizations, and road safety advocacy groups, serves as a governance tool aimed at embedding road safety into the political process. It provides clear guidelines on how political parties can use their platforms to promote road safety awareness and implement measures that safeguard the public during the electoral period.
At the launch, which was attended by representatives from various political parties, traditional leaders, and key governance institutions, the NRSA emphasized the alarming trend of increased road accidents and fatalities during election seasons. NRSA Director General, Mr. David Osafo Adonteng, highlighted that these periods have historically seen spikes in road crashes, making it imperative for political leaders to take proactive steps in ensuring the safety of their supporters and the general public.
Mr. Adonteng explained that the NRSA has intensified its engagement with political parties in anticipation of potential risks during this year’s elections. He noted that party representatives present at the launch will play a crucial role in enforcing road safety protocols within their parties, thereby contributing to a safer electoral process.
Addressing the issue of political impunity, Mr. Adonteng dismissed the notion that politicians are solely responsible for disregarding traffic regulations. He emphasized that road safety is a collective responsibility, involving not just political figures but also their supporters and the general public. He called on political leaders to lead by example, ensuring that their campaigns adhere to traffic laws and promote a culture of safety. The NRSA also appealed to the media to play an active role in raising awareness about road safety during the election period, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving a safer environment for all.
