Opposition MP Jone Usamate has urged the government to ensure that all vehicles are utilized for their designated purposes. In his statement, Mr. Usamate emphasized that government vehicles are vital assets needed for the efficient delivery of services.
He expressed concerns regarding the usage of these vehicles, particularly in terms of reckless driving behaviors such as speeding and improper overtaking, which compromise the safety of other road users.
Mr. Usamate pointed out that the use of rotating flashing lights on vehicles during non-emergency situations violates regulations. He also highlighted the troubling sight of numerous government vehicles being stored at private residences and community police stations during weekends and on a daily basis.
According to Mr. Usamate, the government’s transport policy explicitly outlines the proper garaging of vehicles. However, he noted that many appear to disregard these guidelines. The policy mandates that vehicles should be parked at the agency’s official garage or car park after business hours and during weekends, except with prior approval for special cases.
He further criticized the sight of government vehicles frequently commuting from homes to offices, often picking up officials en route. Mr. Usamate reiterated that only permanent secretaries are permitted to use government vehicles, calling for an end to these practices, which he believes waste public resources.