VIP motorcades need to slow down – analysts

JEMIMA BEUKES



WINDHOEK

Political analysts believe there is need for the conduct of the presidential motorcade to be reviewed to ensure the killing of innocent people never occurs again.

This after a biker - who formed part of President Hage Geingob’s motorcade - on Monday hit and killed a pedestrian on the Western Bypass in Windhoek.

The presidential press secretary Alfredo Hengari confirmed the incident, adding that a report is currently being compiled by the police to establish what happened.

“One person was hit by a motorbike that is part of the presidential motorcade, but the presidential motorcade itself was not there. The president was between Okahandja and Otjiwarongo when that happened. He was going to take position,” he said.

‘Exaggerated’ behaviour

Meanwhile, political analyst Ndumba Kamwanyah said while it is clear that what happened was not intentional, the ‘exaggerated’ behaviour of the motorcade must be reviewed.

“I think it was just an accident, but I don’t know what the protocol states within the department when it comes to the other road users. I always feel that there is a lot of exaggeration on how they are doing it. We are not at war; we are a peaceful country. Why can they not avoid this commotion when they are driving?” he asked.

Another analyst Graham Hopwood said there is no justification for this behaviour, and added he cannot see why the motorcade cannot remain within the road laws of the country.

“When you start speeding on Namibia’s roads, you are increasing the risk of motor accidents. Surely if they keep to the speed limit, it would be a lot of safer for pedestrians and the VIPs in the cars,” he said.

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