Taxi drivers have started protesting in Hulhumale’ today, against the government's efforts to provide their own taxi services, stating that they will not bow their heads “even if they are cut off”.
The peaceful demonstration by taxi drivers is being held at Ruggandu 1 in Hulhumale’. One of the drivers, Misbah Shareef said that over 80 drivers were participating in the protest.
He said the taxi drivers' main demand was for the government to immediately stop its plans to launch a taxi service. “This protest will continue, and we will not stop,” said Misbah, “until the government informs us in an official capacity or issues a statement, that they have rescinded plans to offer taxi services”.
The protesting drivers attempted to gather at the area at 4pm today, after pre-announcing the protest on social media. They were initially blocked by the police. When the drivers refused to leave and began their demonstration, the police conceded and allowed their vehicles into the zone.
Another driver participating in the protest said the government planned to introduce about 300 cars to the city to start taxi services. He expressed concern over the severe lack of space in the Male’ area and said that this move would leave many families struggling financially.
He further stated that while drivers were willing to address issues related to providing taxi services, they would oppose the government's attempt to assert its authority by introducing its own service. "We are here today to fight for our rights, even if the government would 'cut off our heads.' We are brave enough, and we will do so peacefully," he said.
The government first announced the launch of a taxi service at a ceremony on July 25 last year, but backtracked on the decision on August 4 after protests by taxi drivers.
Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen on 29 October then re-announced the decision while speaking at the Economic Affairs Committee in parliament, stating that the government intended to run the taxi service through a state-owned company.
