Commercial transport operators across the country have called on the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) to issue an unreserved public apology over what they describe as “reckless and irrelevant” comments regarding a proposed ban on the use of Toyota Voxy vehicles for commercial purposes.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, April 14, the group expressed outrage over the Authority’s public statements, accusing the NRSA of misleading the public and undermining the livelihoods of thousands of transport operators who depend on the vehicle for their daily operations.
According to the operators, the NRSA has failed to provide any empirical data or engage key stakeholders to justify what they describe as a “sweeping and ill-conceived” decision.
Instead, they argue, the Authority has relied on media commentary that has created unnecessary panic within the transport sector.
The statement, jointly signed by National Chairman Asonaba Nana Wiredu and Yaw Barimah, PRO for True Drivers, demands an immediate and unqualified apology from the NRSA to all affected operators.
They further insist that the apology should be given the same level of publicity as the initial comments, including publication on the front pages of the daily newspapers.
Beyond the apology, the transport operators are calling for an immediate halt to any plans to ban the Toyota Voxy and are urging the Authority to initiate broad stakeholder consultations.
They want transport unions, vehicle owners, and driver associations to be actively involved in discussions aimed at improving road safety.
The statement also challenges the rationale behind targeting a specific vehicle model, arguing that road accidents in the country are largely caused by poor driver behaviour, deteriorating road infrastructure, and weak enforcement of traffic regulations—not the type of vehicle in use.
“Singling out the Toyota Voxy is a lazy approach that will only destroy businesses, increase unemployment, and worsen economic hardship,” the statement noted.
The operators further warned that failure by the NRSA to retract its position and apologise could trigger nationwide resistance.
They indicated that they are prepared to pursue legal action, organise mass protests, and even withdraw transport services if necessary.
Despite the standoff, the group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting road safety but stressed that transport operators should not be made scapegoats for what they describe as institutional shortcomings.
By 1960news.com
