BECE candidates stranded as motorbike ban in Binduri threatens access

The ban on motorbike riding imposed by the Ministry of the Interior and security agencies in the Binduri District of the Upper East Region has disrupted the main mode of transport for many residents, particularly those in rural communities.

BECE candidates say the restriction is severely affecting their studies and access to examination centres. Many of them live far from their centres and fear they may not arrive on time without motorbikes. They are appealing to the government and the Ministry of the Interior to temporarily lift the ban to enable them to write their exams.

For most pupils in the district, motorbikes remain the primary means of transport to and from examination centres.

Owusu Emmanuel, a BECE candidate, said he now has to walk long distances to sit for his exams.

“I have to walk 25km to get to the centre. I am appealing to the government to lift the ban so we can all write freely,” he said.

Another candidate indicated that they cannot afford alternative transport and appealed for urgent intervention.

Karim Sherifa, a sibling of one of the candidates, also called on authorities to ease the restriction.

“Please lift the ban so my brothers and sisters can get to their exam centres,” she said.

A resident, Timothy Abugri, said the situation has created serious challenges for families in the district.

“Previously, we used motorbikes to take our children to the BECE centres. But with the ban, we are confused. Motorbikes are our only means of transport. We even use them as ambulances to carry the sick to health centres. Now we are challenged. I am appealing to the government to relax the restrictions so our children can write their exams,” he said.

The District Chief Executive for Binduri, Martin Ariku Akudugu, has appealed to parents to remain calm while efforts are made to ensure a smooth examination process. He assured candidates of adequate security at their respective centres and called for an end to violence in the area to maintain peace.