Fatshimetrie, September 30, 2024 – It is a busy day for the head of the provincial division of Transport in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Indeed, during a meeting held this Monday, Adrienne Iseka was informed of the demands of motorcyclists following a demonstration aimed at denouncing road harassment in the Congolese metropolis.
“We could not ignore the problems they face. It was essential that we sit down together to discuss the arbitrary arrests they are victims of,” stressed Ms. Iseka, head of the provincial division of Transport.
A long-term meeting was held with representatives of several associations of motorcycle taxi drivers to listen to their grievances before the strike gained momentum, she added.
In a spirit of seeking solutions, the provincial Transport Division announced a meeting next Thursday between the provincial Minister of Transport and Urban Mobility, Bob Amiso, and the motorcycle taxi drivers to restore peace in the area.
The Minister’s legal counsel noted some of the issues discussed at the meeting, such as road harassment and the clothing of motorcycle taxi drivers, Guy Beauchar Longongo said.
“It has become apparent that motorcycle taxi drivers are refusing to pick up customers in the area. There is a climate of disorder, and it is imperative for us to restore order. We must reach a compromise to restore peace,” insisted the Chief Commissioner of Police in Brikin, Eric Yongo.
This meeting and the ongoing discussions illustrate the willingness of local authorities to address the concerns of motorcyclists and restore order in the transport sector in Kinshasa. It is hoped that the meeting scheduled for Thursday will help find suitable solutions and establish a climate of collaboration and serenity between all parties concerned.