The Automotive Dealers and Importers Association has come under fire after reports emerged that the Drivers of Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is allegedly selling number plates, DV plates to politicians, particularly top government officials and other high profile figures, at original price GHC 470.
This has sparked outrage among car dealers and industry stakeholders, who are now appealing to the government to take immediate action against the DVLA chief executive officer and staff.
According to reports, the connection men who has direct contact with top government officials and DVLA office is allegedly selling number plates at a price of GHC 1,500 – Ghc 1,700 to their favorite, which is more than double the official rate.
This has led to accusations of corruption and abuse of power within the DVLA, with dealers claiming that the inflated prices are being used to generate illegal profits.
“Automotive Dealers and Importers Association are deeply concerned about the unfair practices being carried out by the DVLA,”
“The DVLA is not only selling number plates to top government officials but is also allowing some people to resell them at even higher prices, which is a clear violation of the law and a threat to the integrity of the vehicle registration process.”
The Automotive Dealers and Importers Association has called on the government to investigate the allegations and take strict action against the DVLA chief executive officer and staff involved in the illegal operations.
They urge DVLA authority to call all the industry players including Unions, Associations and Chambers to allow them access the DV plats for their business.
They have given the DVLA one week ultimatum to do the needful.
“If the government does not act, we will not hesitate to demonstrate against the DVLA and demand accountability,”.
The issue has also raised concerns about the transparency and efficiency of the DVLA in managing the vehicle registration process.
Many car owners and dealers have reported long queues and delays in obtaining number plates, which they attribute to the alleged corruption and mismanagement within the authority.
However, the government has been urged to step in and ensure that the DVLA operates within the bounds of the law.
As the situation develops, the Automotive Dealers and Importers Association remains on high alert, with dealers warning that further action by the DVLA could lead to widespread protests and a complete breakdown of the vehicle registration system in Ghana.