Published: July 2, 2024
MONROVIA – Members of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) Legislative Caucus on Tuesday breached the recently instituted “No Go Zone” policy by driving tricycles, known locally as Kekeh, to the Capitol Building. This action was a form of protest against the Ministry of Finance and Development’s failure to fund the procurement of vehicles for them since their induction as the 55th legislature.
Despite the lawmakers exercising their rights, their actions violate the newly implemented policy restricting the use of motorcycles and tricycles in certain areas, especially Capitol Hill. Lawmakers were seen riding in tricycles, using official license plates issued by the Ministry of Transport, which are intended for cars, not bikes or tricycles.
Police Spokeswoman Cecelia Clarke has promised to address the concerns raised by the media in the coming days.
Constitutional Immunity and the Policy Conflict
According to Article 42 of the Liberian Constitution, no member of the Senate or House of Representatives shall be arrested, detained, prosecuted, or tried for opinions expressed or votes cast in the exercise of their office. They are also privileged from arrest while attending, going to, or returning from sessions of the Legislature, except for treason, felony, or breach of the peace. This constitutional provision raises questions about the enforcement of the “No Go Zone” policy on lawmakers.
The “No Go Zone” Policy
The Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Liberia Motorcycles and Tricycles Union agreed to implement the “No Go Zone” policy which started May 15, 2024. The policy aimed to curb accidents and crimes involving motorcycle riders and instill public order.
Police Inspector General Col. Gregory Coleman emphasized the necessity of the measure to reduce accidents, crimes, and fatalities associated with commercial motorcycle operations, particularly instances of theft and armed robbery facilitated by motorcycles.
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