Monrovia – The Federation of Motorcycle and Tricycle Union of Liberia (FOMTUL) has threatened to take serious measures against motorcyclists found violating traffic regulations in the country.
Report by Willie N. Tokpah – [email protected]
The newly endorsed National Board Chairman of FOMTUL, Rev. Luther Tarpeh, told a news conference Tuesday, March 6, that the lack of adhering to traffic regulations has caused too many motorcycle accidents across Liberia and must be addressed.
“Any rider, who violates the code of conduct of this sector, any rider, who will be caught drinking alcohol before taking passengers, will be severely punished under this new federation,” Rev. Tarpeh said.
“Leaders of our various unions will work together with the board chair and by the grace of God, we will change the image problem.”
“Sooner or later, Liberians will see motorcyclists, who they used to call ‘suicide bombers’ becomes champions of change for the country.”
Rev. Tarpeh said driving drunk without protective gears is a major problem that needs to be avoided in order to prevent motorcycle accidents in the country.
His statement comes days after Police Inspector General Sudue lifted the ban on two major no-go zones in Montserrado: Freeport to Redlight route and the Redlight to ELWA Junction route.
He, however, commended Inspector Sudue for giving credence to the plead of motorcyclists by relaxing the ban.
Rev. Tarpeh said integrity crisis overshadowing the commercial motorcycle sector is creating negative image for the union.
In the face of these negativities outlined, Tarpeh is optimistic of transformation in a year’s time.
“Our major vision for this federation in the next one year is to conduct workshop for all riders around the country.”
“We will work towards modernizing the sector and provide safety gears for all riders across the country,” Rev. Tarpeh said.
He said conducting workshops would ensure bikers exercise civic responsibilities and politeness while commuting passengers.
Rev. Tarpeh, who was endorsed Tuesday by eight unions, called for the support of motorcyclists.
During the endorsement, the head of the tricycle and motorcycle union, Jenkins Zayzay said Rev. Tarpeh is best suited to transform the sector.
“We, the eight unions, recognized by government, have all decided to endorse Rev. J. Luther Tarpeh as National Board Chair. From today, let it be known to the people of Liberia that you should kindly deal with the federation on issues of motorcyclist riders in the country,” Zayzay added.
Meanwhile, the acting secretary of the federation wants Liberians to see Rev. Tarpeh as head of the motorcycle federation, calling on them to work with him.