Drivers Union gets new executive

The Sierra Leone Drivers Union has elected a new executive followed by a colourful inauguration at the National Stadium on the 22nd June, 2009.
The ceremony which saw a mass turn up of drivers across Sierra Leone and members of top government Parastatals expressed the view that the new executive is ready to bolster the Union’s primary objectives.
In his opening statement, the Master of ceremony Alhaji Kandeh-Yillah the purpose of the meeting was not to trigger strike action but to present to them the leadership of the union which aims to strengthen solidarity and move the union to an enviable status. He noted the problems encountered in the past fifteen months which affected the union adversely because of disunity amongst membership. He therefore admonished all drivers to form a unifying body to tackle their domestic problems upon the completion of the programme.
Representatives from the four regions expressed their views on   the unfriendly atmosphere established by the police surrounding their operations.
They threw deep concerns and regret on the miserable condition of drivers even when they are partners in development. He suggested that bus stops should be erected at various points around the city to minimize indiscriminate alighting and picking up of passengers as this has over the years resulted to unnecessary arrests and payment of huge fines.
The Director of Attitudinal Change, Mr. Philip Conteh said drivers should exercise some amount of professionalism as he has witnessed many a time when drivers indulge in bad driving habits.
The president-elect, Alhaji Abubakarr Fofanah, in his maiden address stated that the Union has enormous task to accomplish, and they will ensure completion of the most pressing problems if not all. Drivers who are not professionals, he further stated will not be recommended to have driving  licenses as this has over the years resulted to mistrust among the general populace. Pieces of advice were given to drivers regarding respect for rules and regulations governing driving.
The programme was climaxed by the statement made by the Minister of Political Affairs, Alhaji Alpha Kanu which was all geared towards creating a lively atmosphere for the operations of drivers and the police.
He promised to pass on the message to the right channel.