Ziguinchor, Jan 7 (APS) – Drivers of “jakarta” Motorcycle taxis demonstrated on Tuesday in Ziguinchor to denounce the new measures taken by state authorities to improve road safety, including the compulsory registration of motorcycles older than 49 cubic centimeters by March 13.
“We mobilized spontaneously because the situation is serious. We are faced with a current problem and a problem that concerns everyone. The transportation sector is complex. We do not agree with these measures taken by state authorities,” said Ansoumana Badji, president of the motorcycle drivers’ association.
»Young people do not agree with these measures taken by the State of Senegal. Everything these authorities are doing goes against our interests,” added Mr. Badji, who is also president of the National Union of Motorcycle Taxi Associations of Senegal.
In the presence of drivers, he declared that “Jakarta’s transport sector is self-employment”. “These young people,” he explained, “created their own jobs by buying their own motorcycle.”
He indicated that “if the State wants to help these young people, it must first listen to their aspirations, guide them before making the right decision”.
“We therefore ask that the State reverse this decision. It doesn’t suit us,” argued Ansoumana Badji.
The demonstrators occupied and burned tires on roads in the city of Ziguinchor, before being dispersed by the police.
A circular from the Prime Minister’s Office, dated December 13, 2024, relating to strict measures to improve road safety throughout the country was sent to the Ministries of the Armed Forces, the Interior, Finance and Infrastructure, with a view to immediate application.
Prominent among the measures concerned is the compulsory registration of motorcycles over 49 cc.. A free period of three months is planned to facilitate this regularization, with the exception of the cost of registration plates. Beyond this period, any unregistered motorcycle will be immediately impounded.”
MNF/AB/OID
