Opposition MP Jone Usamate has urged the government to ensure that all vehicles are utilized solely for their designated purposes. In a recent statement, Mr. Usamate emphasized that government vehicles are critical assets necessary for delivering public services.
He expressed concerns regarding the operations of these vehicles, particularly relating to speeding and reckless driving, which jeopardize the safety of other road users. Mr. Usamate also pointed out the inappropriate use of rotating flashing lights in non-emergency situations, a violation of the law. He highlighted the troubling trend of government vehicles being parked at private residences and community police posts during the week and on weekends.
According to Mr. Usamate, the government’s transport policy is explicit about the proper storage of vehicles. It stipulates that vehicles should be parked in the official agency garages or car parks after business hours and over weekends, except with prior authorization. He noted that it is common to see government vehicles commuting from private homes to offices during peak morning hours, often picking up officials en route. He reminded that the policy restricts government vehicle entitlement to permanent secretaries, urging an end to such practices, which he described as a significant burden on public resources.