Fatalities on our roads are increasing by the day with last weekend’s accidents claiming the lives of 20 people.

Fifteen were lost in one accident last month, which also left scores with various degrees of injuries. According to Police figures, the total number of fatalities from road accidents within the last two months is more than a third of deaths recorded in the first half of the year. This is a serious challenge, partly indicating lack of respect for traffic laws on the part of motorists.  

Despite the many road safety campaigns by the traffic police and other authorities, road users seem not to pay heed. This could explain why the government is considering harsh penalties for traffic offenders.  

This is a smart move that needs support of every well-meaning Rwandan, naysayers notwithstanding. After all, when people cannot conduct themselves in an acceptable manner or act responsibly, it’s upon the government to bring them to order to protect them and others.

Indeed, if motorists cannot drive responsibly and respect traffic regulations, the government is duty-bound to compel them to do so using the proposed heavy fines. However, let every citizen and all road users take it as their duty to promote safety on our roads.

Passengers using commuter buses should ‘police’ reckless drivers or, better still, perform a citizens’ arrest. It is important to remember that road accidents cost the economy dearly in terms of property and lives lost, as well as money spent on treatment and days accident victims spend without doing gainfully work.

Let’s s say no to irresponsible road use by supporting government’s efforts to reduce road carnage in the country. Everyone should play a positive role to reduce road fatalities.