Mezam's New Motorbike Order: Safety Measure, Blessing To Security Forces Or Another Burden On Riders
By Raymond Dingana A new prefectoral order restricting the number of passengers carried by commercial motorbike riders has taken effect in Mezam Division, North West Region of Cameroon. The order, signed on October 7 by the Senior Divisional Officer for Mezam, Simon Emile Mooh, prohibits motorbike riders from transporting more than one passenger at a time. It also bans riders from wearing jackets that have not been approved by the municipal authorities. Simon Emile Mooh says the measures are aimed at improving public order and security in the division. However, the new restrictions have raised questions among some motorbike riders over their possible impact on their income, passengers and the way the order will be enforced. Order Takes Immediate Effect Article 1 of Prefectoral Order No. 567 states that the order takes effect from the date of signature. This means riders are expected to comply immediately, without a transition period to allow them to adjust to the new regul...