Opposition MP Jone Usamate has urged the government to ensure that all vehicles are utilized for their designated purposes. He emphasized that government vehicles are essential assets required for delivering public services. Usamate expressed his concerns about the current misuse of these vehicles, particularly regarding reckless driving behaviors such as speeding and unsafe overtaking, which endanger the lives of other road users.
He pointed out that the use of rotating flashing lights on government vehicles during non-emergency situations is unlawful. Another significant issue he highlighted is the number of government vehicles being stored at private residences and community police stations during weekdays and weekends.
Usamate noted that the government’s transport policy clearly outlines regulations regarding vehicle storage, yet these guidelines seem to be disregarded. According to the policy, government vehicles should be parked in official garages or designated car parks at the end of each workday and during weekends, except when special permission is granted.
He remarked that commuting patterns in the mornings demonstrate the extent of the issue, with numerous government vehicles transporting officials from their homes to offices, contrary to policies which state that only permanent secretaries are authorized to have government vehicles. Usamate insisted that these practices must cease, as they significantly burden public resources.