(YEI RIVER COUNTY) – Taxi drivers in Yei River County, Central Equatoria State, have raised serious concerns about increasing taxation at multiple checkpoints along the Juba-Yei and Yei-Kaya roads.
The drivers say that the rising number of roadblocks, combined with double charges imposed by some security personnel, has significantly reduced their earnings and made it difficult to continue operating.
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Yei River County, Central Equatoria State |
| Issue | Taxi drivers protesting illegal taxes and excessive roadblocks |
| Drivers’ Action | One day strike to highlight grievances |
| Main Complaint | Double charges and numerous checkpoints cutting earnings |
| Appeal | Drivers asked County Commissioner to intervene |
| Commissioner’s Response | Acknowledged complaints, promised to raise issue with higher authorities |
| Other Challenges | Poor road conditions, insecurity, frequent ambushes |
| Risk to Public | Possible fare increases and reduced transport services |
| Drivers’ Call | Improve road safety, reduce illegal taxes, and strengthen security |
According to the Chairperson of the Taxi Drivers’ Association, Francis Mambo, the drivers staged a one day strike last week to highlight their challenges. He explained that the levies at checkpoints frequently push drivers into financial losses, even after a full day of work.
“We cannot continue like this. Some of us have now stayed home for a week because the roadblocks are making business impossible,” Mambo said.
The association has appealed to the Commissioner of Yei River County, Emmanuel Taban Seme, to engage the relevant state and national authorities to address the problem. Drivers warned that without intervention, passengers may soon face higher transport fares as operators attempt to recover costs.
Commissioner Seme confirmed that his office had received the complaints and promised to forward them to higher authorities. He urged drivers to remain cooperative with both citizens and government institutions, emphasising that transport services are essential for economic activity and community well-being.
One of the drivers, Batali James, explained that the challenges extend beyond taxation. He pointed to insecurity, poor road conditions and the risk of ambushes, which in the past have targeted civilians and humanitarian workers travelling in the area.
“The potholes, threats on the road, and lack of adequate security are affecting movement. People are afraid to travel,” James said.
Both the Juba-Yei and Yei-Kaya roads have previously witnessed ambushes and abductions, raising fears among passengers and operators alike.
