Hundreds of tricycle operators in Techiman were taken through a sensitisation exercise as the government takes concrete steps to legalise commercial motorcycles (okada) and tricycles (pragya) – fulfilling a key presidential campaign promise.

Ahead of government timelines, the National Union of Tricycle Operators has launched a nationwide sensitisation blitz.

"We won’t wait passively," declared National Chairman Hamza Hafiz at the Techiman rally.

"Our members endure daily harassment – police seize bikes over minor violations, extort bribes, and treat us like criminals. Legalization must bring dignity," Hamza said.

Key reforms being advocated include mandatory safety training and licensing, a unified insurance scheme for operators, and designated parking and pickup zones.

The rally spotlighted an issue operators call existential: substance abuse.

The Techiman Vice Chairman, Fuseini Salifu, revealed that "Passengers constantly complain about drivers who smoke wee (marijuana) before shifts. They swerve dangerously, overcharge, or pick fights. One reckless rider taints us all."

Another operator, Asiedu Emmanuel, 34, sharing his ordeal, said, "The police constantly harass us – all because they assume every okada rider is a drug user. The new law must separate responsible drivers from the bad eggs destroying our reputation."

Union leaders are incorporating drug education into training modules and partnering with health NGOs for rehabilitation support.

As the Techiman rally ended with operators about the new LI set to legalize their trade, the path forward remains fraught with challenges – but pulsating with hope.