Acting President and Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has called on public officials and influential figures to lead by example and refrain from interfering in the work of traffic ranks. He emphasized that such meddling undermines efforts to improve road safety in the country.
Speaking at the opening of Road Safety Month 2025, Phillips highlighted the importance of accountability and respect for law enforcement, stating that these principles must begin at the top. He pointed out that one of the major obstacles to safer roads is the pressure exerted by influential individuals on police officers to release traffic offenders. “We cannot expect discipline in our streets if we keep undermining the people enforcing the law,” he cautioned.
The Acting President revealed that he often receives calls from friends and family asking him to intervene when they are stopped by police for traffic violations. However, he consistently refuses to engage in such matters. “I get the calls, but I tell them no. The police have their job to do,” he remarked, sharing an incident where he had to remind a younger relative that officers have the authority to act as needed.
Phillips recalled encouraging the officer directly when his relative attempted to hand over the phone, saying, “I told him, don’t be intimidated. Handle the matter as you think best.” He reiterated his commitment to consistently convey this message, reinforcing that those who break the law must face the consequences.
He challenged his colleagues in high office and other community leaders to adopt a similar stance, asserting that when those in power refuse to interfere, it sends a strong message that strengthens road discipline. “If you break the law, face the consequence,” he concluded.
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