The Minister for the Interior, Muntaka Mohammed-Mubarak, has announced stricter regulations governing the use of sirens on government vehicles, revealing that not all ministers and political appointees will automatically qualify for the privilege.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Tuesday, the minister said the move forms part of a broader government effort to improve road safety, curb abuse of official privileges and promote greater accountability in public service.
According to him, a directive issued through the Office of the President now requires all requests for siren installation on official vehicles to undergo a formal approval process, with final authorisation resting with President John Dramani Mahama.
Mr Mubarak explained that the President has made it clear that sirens should only be granted to public officials who can demonstrate a genuine operational need for them.
“The President has been very firm on this matter. Anyone within government who is not authorised to use a siren but installs one should face the law. If such individuals are arrested, their details should be submitted to my office,” he said, citing instructions from the President.
As part of the new framework, the Interior Ministry has opened an application process for officials seeking permission to use sirens or receive motorcade support. Applications will be reviewed and forwarded to the Presidency for consideration and approval.
“The President has directed that even ministers must apply through the Interior Ministry. I will submit the applications to his office, where a determination will be made on who genuinely requires a motor rider escort or siren and who does not,” Mr Mubarak explained.
He disclosed that several ministers have already submitted applications, which are currently being processed for review by the Presidency.
The Interior Minister said the policy is intended to restore discipline on the country’s roads, prevent the misuse of state privileges and ensure that official resources are allocated fairly and transparently.
The new measures are also expected to strengthen public confidence in government’s commitment to accountability and responsible use of authority, particularly in relation to road traffic management and official vehicle operations.