Government has not abandoned Okada riders, union insists

The Commercial National Motor Riders Union (CNMRU) has refuted allegations that the government has abandoned commercial motorcycle riders following their support during the 2024 general election campaign. In a statement, the CNMRU dismissed claims by the Okada Riders Association (ORAG) as false and misleading. The government established a technical committee after the elections to research and engage stakeholders on Okada operations regulation, according to the union.

The CNMRU participated actively in this process, representing their riders' interests nationwide. Additionally, a delegation traveled to Rwanda to study their approach to regulating commercial motorcycle operations. The union also highlighted that the bill on regulating commercial motorcycle operations has been introduced in Parliament and is undergoing legislative proceedings.

The CNMRU emphasized that this progress demonstrates the government's commitment to the Okada riders. They further informed that awareness programs are underway nationwide to educate riders about road safety, licensing, responsible riding, and the legal framework for commercial motorcycle operations. The union is also collaborating with the government and DVLA to facilitate mobile licensing services for riders and help them obtain licenses at reduced rates.

The CNMRU welcomed plans to introduce electric motorcycles, providing riders with access to eco-friendly options under a work-and-pay arrangement. While acknowledging that some challenges remain, the union urged Okada riders, media, and the public to differentiate between propaganda and the ongoing efforts to regulate the sector.