President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, during an address to the nation earlier today following a meeting with senior Joint Services officials, outlined urgent measures to address the rising frequency of road accidents across the country. The meeting, which included Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh, and other key officials, focused on the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws to enhance road safety.
In his address, President Ali emphasized the importance of enforcing maximum culpability under the law for drivers who endanger lives. “As a nation, we cannot continue with the type of indiscipline on our roadways,” he stated, singling out truck drivers for particular scrutiny. He further disclosed that Attorney General Anil Nandlall has been tasked with examining existing legislation to identify gaps that would hold truck owners accountable for ensuring their drivers operate responsibly.
Highlighting the issue of speeding, President Ali noted that the law provides for the suspension of licenses but lamented the inadequate implementation of this measure. “With all the speeding that is taking place on our roadways, only 18 suspensions this year do not reflect the magnitude of the problem. I have asked the Traffic Chief, the Commissioner of Police, and the leadership of the Guyana Police Force to take immediate steps to enforce this law fully,” he said.
To enhance accountability, the President announced the deployment of body cameras for traffic ranks to provide video evidence during enforcement operations. Additionally, CCTV cameras at strategic locations will support the police in identifying and apprehending reckless drivers.
President Ali also addressed the issue of drunk driving, noting that bar owners must now play a pivotal role in preventing accidents. He reminded the public that under recently enacted laws, bar owners are obligated to confiscate car keys and refuse alcohol sales to drivers. “I have asked the Guyana Police Force to ensure this law is implemented to its fullest extent. Bars must display proper signage reflecting this regulation, and failure to comply could result in the suspension of their licenses,” he warned.
The President also pointed to ongoing technological advancements, such as speed advisory digital boards that will soon be installed on highways to alert drivers of their speed. Notably, the Heroes Highway, which is equipped with advanced cameras linked to the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Revenue Authority, has already resulted in 893 speeding tickets being issued this year.
“We cannot continue the carnage and lawlessness on our roads,” President Ali stated. “Drivers who are caught speeding more than three times will face license suspensions. We have to take these actions to save you from yourselves because you are putting not just your life, but the lives of others at risk.”
The President concluded by urging drivers, especially truck and public transportation operators, to comply with the laws and regulations in the interest of saving lives. “I am pleading with drivers to adhere to the rules. These measures are being implemented for the safety of all road users,” he said.
The briefing was attended by Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken, Traffic Chief Mahendra Singh, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, and other senior officials, signaling a unified commitment to improving road safety across Guyana.
