Fresh concerns have surfaced over alleged political manipulation of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) under the leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama.
According to credible sources, the DVLA is reportedly enforcing a stringent and punitive regulatory regime—described by critics as “draconian”—with the aim of extorting money from ordinary Ghanaian drivers. These funds, it is alleged, are being channeled—directly or indirectly—into supporting the activities of the NDC, including preparations for its 2028 general election campaign.
Historical Context: DVLA and Allegations of Abuse
The DVLA has in the past come under public scrutiny over its enforcement methods and opaque revenue collection practices. As far back as 2013, during Mahama’s first term as President, the Authority introduced enhanced road safety compliance operations, which included the enforcement of new penalties and vehicle roadworthiness reforms. While these measures were intended to modernise road safety, they drew backlash from transport unions and civil society groups who cited steep fees, selective enforcement, and lack of automation in payment systems.
By 2016, the DVLA had reportedly increased its internally generated funds (IGF) by over 45%, raising questions about the sources of this revenue and whether ordinary drivers were bearing the brunt through excessive fines. Similar concerns were raised again in 2021 and 2023, when drivers accused the DVLA and MTTD of arbitrary arrests and on-the-spot fines, many of which were undocumented or paid in cash.
Today, under Mahama’s renewed leadership of the NDC, insiders claim a return to such tactics may be underway—with an alleged political motive. Drivers across key transport hubs in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi report being fined for a long list of offences—many of them minor or questionable—without prior notice or proper documentation.
A leaked document circulating among political circles suggests that portions of the revenue mobilised by the DVLA are being earmarked for party mobilisation and campaign funding. Though unverified, the document indicates that the NDC is determined to raise substantial internal funds by leveraging state-connected institutions—especially ahead of the 2028 generalHere is a revised version of the article with historical context and background data added to support the claims and provide deeper insight:
Allegations Emerge of NDC Influence Over DVLA to Fund 2028 Campaign
Fresh concerns have surfaced over alleged political manipulation of the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) by the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC) under the leadership of former President John Dramani Mahama.
According to credible sources, the DVLA is reportedly enforcing a stringent and punitive regulatory regime—described by critics as “draconian”—with the aim of extorting money from ordinary Ghanaian drivers. These funds, it is alleged, are being channeled—directly or indirectly—into supporting the activities of the NDC, including preparations for its 2028 general election campaign.
Historical Context: DVLA and Allegations of Abuse
The DVLA has in the past come under public scrutiny over its enforcement methods and opaque revenue collection practices. As far back as 2013, during Mahama’s first term as President, the Authority introduced enhanced road safety compliance operations, which included the enforcement of new penalties and vehicle roadworthiness reforms. While these measures were intended to modernise road safety, they drew backlash from transport unions and civil society groups who cited steep fees, selective enforcement, and lack of automation in payment systems.
By 2016, the DVLA had reportedly increased its internally generated funds (IGF) by over 45%, raising questions about the sources of this revenue and whether ordinary drivers were bearing the brunt through excessive fines. Similar concerns were raised again in 2021 and 2023, when drivers accused the DVLA and MTTD of arbitrary arrests and on-the-spot fines, many of which were undocumented or paid in cash.
Today, under Mahama’s renewed leadership of the NDC, insiders claim a return to such tactics may be underway—with an alleged political motive. Drivers across key transport hubs in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi report being fined for a long list of offences—many of them minor or questionable—without prior notice or proper documentation.
A leaked document circulating among political circles suggests that portions of the revenue mobilised by the DVLA are being earmarked for party mobilisation and campaign funding. Though unverified, the document indicates that the NDC is determined to raise substantial internal funds by leveraging state-connected institutions—especially ahead of the 2028 general elections.
Calls for Accountability and Transparency
Civil society organisations, including the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) and the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), have long advocated for reforms within the DVLA. In a 2020 report, CDD-Ghana warned of the potential for political capture of regulatory bodies, citing the DVLA as a case study in how state institutions can be used for partisan or financial gain.
The current allegations have sparked calls for:
A parliamentary inquiry into the finances and enforcement practices of the DVLA.
An independent audit to trace the flow of funds generated through roadside fines and administrative fees.
Full automation of DVLA’s payment systems to prevent cash handling and leakages.
As Ghana enters a crucial election buildup period, concerns about the politicisation of governance agencies remain high. Neither the DVLA nor the NDC has officially commented on the claims.
However, if proven true, these developments could severely undermine public trust in regulatory institutions and compromise the integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes.
Would you like this formatted into a TV news script, editorial opinion, or a timeline infographic next?
elections.
Calls for Accountability and Transparency
Civil society organisations, including the Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII) and the Centre for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana), have long advocated for reforms within the DVLA. In a 2020 report, CDD-Ghana warned of the potential for political capture of regulatory bodies, citing the DVLA as a case study in how state institutions can be used for partisan or financial gain.
The current allegations have sparked calls for:
A parliamentary inquiry into the finances and enforcement practices of the DVLA.
An independent audit to trace the flow of funds generated through roadside fines and administrative fees.
Full automation of DVLA’s payment systems to prevent cash handling and leakages.
As Ghana enters a crucial election buildup period, concerns about the politicisation of governance agencies remain high. Neither the DVLA nor the NDC has officially commented on the claims.
However, if proven true, these developments could severely undermine public trust in regulatory institutions and compromise the integrity of Ghana’s democratic processes.
