By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a heartfelt plea to the government, members of the Dwarzark Bike Riders Union have written a letter to President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Bio, seeking urgent intervention over the recent ban on commercial motorbikes (okadas) in Freetown’s Central Business District (CBD).
The ban, which restricts okada riders from accessing key areas in the city, has left many riders struggling to make a living.
In their letter, the union emphasized that for many members, the commercial motorbike service is the only viable means of livelihood. The riders are often the primary breadwinners in their families, and the recent restrictions have severely impacted their ability to earn a living.
Despite complying with licensing requirements and registering their motorcycles, the riders claim they have been facing increasing harassment and restrictions from the police, which has compounded their difficulties. “Many of us depend on this work as our only means of livelihood, providing for our families and contributing to our communities. We have complied with the laws by obtaining the necessary licenses and registering our motorcycles, yet we continue to face harassment and restrictions from the police,” the letter states. “As a result, we are unable to access key areas, including the CBD, which significantly affects our earnings and survival.”
The ban has created a visible divide in the city’s transportation system, with okada riders now restricted from operating in some of the busiest and most profitable areas of Freetown, leading to an increase in unemployment and forcing many riders to seek alternative, often less reliable means of earning income.
The letter from the Dwarzark Bike Riders Union also highlights their willingness to follow the law but appeals for a fair solution. The union calls on the government to engage with relevant authorities to ensure a balanced approach to the enforcement of traffic regulations. The riders are requesting that the government find a way to allow them work legally and peacefully, while still maintaining public safety and order. “We are willing to follow regulations, but we ask for fairness in enforcement and the opportunity to earn a living without undue persecution,” the letter continues.
The union members expressed their hope that the leadership of President Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Bio would take their concerns seriously and work towards a solution that would benefit all parties involved.
Such an appeal comes in the wake of a series of protests and public demonstrations by okada riders, who have expressed frustration over the ban and the perceived lack of support from the authorities. The riders have argued that the CBD is a vital area for their livelihood, and without access to these key zones, many are left with little choice but to seek alternative means of employment, which are often not as lucrative or sustainable.
Despite the challenges, the Dwarzark Bike Riders Union remains hopeful that their plea will be heard and that a fair resolution will be reached. The riders’ letter is a testament to their resilience and determination to continue providing for their families and contributing to the local economy, even in the face of adversity.
As Freetown continues to grapple with the complexities of regulating commercial motorbikes, the Dwarzark Bike Riders Union is calling for a compassionate and pragmatic solution that balances the needs of the riders with the broader goals of urban mobility and safety.
