Taxi drivers protest govt's plan for state-run service

Taxi drivers in Male' have taken to the streets to protest the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation's decision to hand over taxi services to a government-owned company.

The move, part of the ministry's “Male’ Fehi” program launched in July, has sparked dissatisfaction among taxi operators, who see it as unwarranted interference in their livelihoods.

Drivers have expressed their frustration with the plan, fearing that government involvement in the taxi business will negatively impact their earnings. During the protests, drivers held placards highlighting their grievances, including the lack of parking facilities and other long-standing issues in the sector.

Protesters questioned the transport ministry’s ability to manage the service effectively and demanded an immediate halt to the initiative. Calls for the resignation of transport minister Mohamed Ameen echoed through the demonstrations, reflecting the depth of their dissatisfaction.

In response to growing concerns, representatives of the taxi drivers previously met with Minister Ameen to voice their objections. The drivers urged the government to reconsider its decision, emphasising that the move threatens the livelihood of independent taxi operators.

Ameen, however, defended the plan, stating that the introduction of a government-operated taxi service would not harm existing businesses. The government’s program aims to provide a modern, safe, and reliable taxi service in the Male’ area, which it claims will address existing gaps in service delivery.

The protests reflect deeper concerns within the taxi industry about government oversight and regulation. Drivers argue that instead of competing with private operators, the government should focus on addressing critical issues such as insufficient parking spaces and improving infrastructure for taxi operators.