Thursday August 15, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) - The Deputy Governor of Security and Political Affairs of Banadir Region, Mohamed Ahmed Diriye Yabooh, along with police officials, has pledged that the government will address the concerns of auto-rickshaw drivers in Mogadishu who have been protesting against a recent increase in license taxes.
During a meeting with representatives of the protesting drivers, Banadir Police Chief Moalin Mahdi and Deputy Governor Yabooh assured the drivers that their grievances would be taken seriously.
The Deputy Governor stated that the administration would issue an official statement regarding the complaints and urged the protesters to return to work to help restore calm in the city.
The protests were triggered by a recent hike in the vehicle license fee to $200 and a $15 monthly local government tax. Many drivers expressed frustration, stating that these new costs and additional fines were unsustainable, particularly for those working alternating days.
Former government leaders, including ex-President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, criticized the recent clashes between security forces and auto-rickshaw drivers in Mogadishu. They highlighted the challenging conditions under which the youth, particularly Bajaj drivers, work and emphasized that they deserve support rather than additional financial burdens.
President Farmaajo called on government agencies to prioritize the healthcare of those injured during the protests, noting that many depend on their daily labour for survival.