The Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolitan Assembly (STMA) has explained the procurement process through which private company Cape 4 Point was engaged to undertake city guard operations within the metropolis.

Sub-Metro Director of the Assembly, Francis Armah, said the company was selected after undergoing a procurement process conducted in accordance with the Assembly’s procurement laws.

Speaking on the Kyzz FM Morning Show with Mr Baah, Mr Armah said the contract was advertised and attracted interest from about two companies before Cape 4 Point emerged as the successful bidder.

He said the company was subsequently placed on probation for some months to allow the Assembly to assess its performance and determine whether it could effectively deliver on its mandate.

According to him, the STMA continues to monitor the company’s operations and engage with it to address challenges as they arise.

“The process is progressive,” he explained, stressing that the Assembly’s engagement with Cape 4 Point involves continuous monitoring and collaboration.

Who is responsible for road signs and markings?

Mr Armah also clarified the respective responsibilities of institutions involved in road management within the metropolis.

He said the installation of road signs is the responsibility of the STMA and the Urban Roads Department, while Cape 4 Point is responsible for road markings under its mandate.

His clarification comes amid concerns from some members of the public over the enforcement of road regulations and the work of city guards across the metropolis.

‘Not every problem is the city guard’s fault’

Addressing complaints about city guard operations, Mr Armah attributed some of the challenges to misunderstanding and the attitude of certain road users.

He noted that some motorists disregard road signs even when they are clearly displayed, while others may simply not understand what particular signs mean.

Mr Armah therefore called on the National Road Safety Authority (NRSA) and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) to intensify driver education, reviews and retraining to improve motorists’ understanding of road signs and traffic regulations.

He stressed that enforcement officers should not automatically be blamed for every difficulty arising from city guard operations, particularly in situations where motorists may not understand the regulations being enforced.

STMA outlines complaint resolution process

Mr Armah said the Assembly has mechanisms in place to address complaints against city guards.

He explained that most complainants are invited to the Sub-Metro office, where the issues are discussed with the parties involved in an effort to reach an amicable resolution.

Cases requiring further intervention, he added, are referred to the main Assembly office for appropriate action.

He urged residents and motorists to cooperate with city guard operations and take advantage of ongoing public sensitisation programmes to better understand the mandate of Cape 4 Point and the road regulations being enforced.

The STMA, he said, remains committed to working with relevant stakeholders to improve road management and ensure greater compliance with traffic regulations across the metropolis.