Massive protests by taxi drivers in Laâyoune against fuel price hikes and illegal transport

The city of Laâyoune witnessed, this Wednesday morning, a protest action carried out by a number of second-category taxi drivers, who held a sit-in in front of the Tanmia station. Reports from the scene indicate that this step was taken to express deep dissatisfaction over a series of issues that are weighing heavily on the working conditions of professionals and threatening the professional stability of the entire taxi sector.

Fuel price hikes lead the professional demands

During the sit-in, protesters explained that the significant rise in fuel prices tops the list of daily challenges they face. Drivers emphasized that the constant increase in operating costs directly and negatively affects their financial income, compounding the difficulties of practicing their professional activity under suitable conditions that ensure a decent living.

Demands to combat illegal transport and unauthorized applications

In addition to the fuel crisis, participants highlighted what they described as the spread of digital applications operating outside the legal framework, as well as the growing phenomenon of illegal transport. According to the protesters’ statements, these practices directly harm the business of regulated taxis and significantly contribute to complicating the socio-economic conditions of those working in this vital sector.

Urgent calls for radical solutions and sector regulation

At the conclusion of their protest, Laâyoune taxi professionals issued an appeal to the relevant authorities to engage seriously with their list of demands. They called for practical and urgent solutions to the issues raised, ensuring improved working conditions, upgrading urban transport services, enforcing compliance with professional regulations, and taking firm action against all practices that constitute unfair competition.