Legalise Okada - Asawase MP Muntaka Mubarak

Motorbikes have been the preferred means of transport for rural and urban folks because it is the easiest and cheapest means by which they ply their business.

The last five years have seen a rise in the use of motorbikes for commercial purposes in towns and cities such as Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, and Cape Coast.

In Accra for instance, the Okada fever has caught up with all corners of the city such that the traveling public now turns to patronise the okada instead of taxis.

Member of Parliament for Asawase, Mohammed Muntaka Mubarak has called for a solid foundation to review the law that forbids the use of motorcycles.

READ MORE: Okada man resuscitated after overdosing on tramadol

According to the Minority Chief Whip, the commercial use of 'Okada' should be legalised due to its contributions to the Ghanaian economy.

In a statement on the floor of the House on Thursday, he said the benefits outweigh the negatives associated with their operations.

In 2012, the use of motorbikes for commercial transport was outlawed under Regulation 128 (1 – 4) of the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 which states that: "The licensing authority shall not register a motorcycle to carry a fare-paying passenger."

The law also prohibits any person from using a motorcycle or tricycle for commercial purposes except for courier and delivery services, while it also prohibits pillions from riding on a motorcycle or tricycle as paying passengers. Offenders are liable to fines or imprisonment.