**Reassigned Toll Agents Demand Justice in Kasai Central, DRC**
The province of Kasai Central in the Democratic Republic of Congo finds itself at the heart of a controversy, as 850 agents, formerly assigned to toll booths, are vehemently demanding their reassignment. These agents, neglected for several years, denounce disguised unemployment that has removed them from their duties, in favor of the provincial division of Infrastructure, Public Works and Reconstruction (ITPA).
Through a memorandum addressed to the provincial authority, the president of the personnel corporation of the provincial division of Transport and Communication, Mr. Désiré Panumpabi Wa Mpanya, highlights the harmful consequences of this forced reassignment. Indeed, the arrival of ITPA agents at the toll booths has created gray areas in the collection of revenues, thus compromising the financial balance and the initial attributions of the Transport Division.
Beyond the financial implications, the disaffected agents also denounce a flagrant violation of the regulations in force. Article 20 of Provincial Edict No. 22/K.OCC/2013, which governs the establishment and distribution of the toll tax in Kasaï Occidental, clearly stipulates the terms of creation of toll booths. By entrusting the establishment and liquidation of taxes to agents of the Transport Division, the edict aims to guarantee transparent and secure management of revenues.
Faced with these irregularities, the reassigned toll agents are demanding not only their reinstatement, but also compensation for the wrongs suffered. They demand that justice be done, in accordance with the legal provisions in force. The current situation highlights the critical issues related to good governance and the protection of workers’ rights, in a context where transparency and fairness are essential to ensure the proper functioning of public services.
In conclusion, the mobilization of the toll agents of Kasaï Central highlights the challenges faced by local administrations and the need to ensure respect for workers’ rights. The resolution of this dispute is therefore of paramount importance to preserve the integrity and efficiency of public services in the province, while ensuring fair and transparent management of financial resources.