Watch: Semi-collectives in Maputo went on strike – because overcrowding is now forbidden

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Watch: Semi-collectives in Maputo went on strike – because overcrowding is now forbidden

3:15 CAT | 21 Jul 2020

Photo: O País

Some private transport carriers in Maputo went on strike on Monday in protest at the injustice and the losses they are allegedly suffering as a result of the measure imposing a limit of three passengers per bench seat on minibuses (‘chapas’).

Carriers maintain that minibuses have been carrying only three passengers per seat since the state of emergency was enacted last March, while this measure has not been observed by buses, which, supposedly, have exceeded the decreed capacity, right under the authorities’ noses.

“This is injustice. Is it possible in the same sector to have two weights and two measures? If buses can carry more than 80 passengers, shouldn’t we be carrying more? ” one carrier complained.

“Once, I carried one extra passenger and was searched by the police. They took me off in a car, and even demanded bribes,” another said. “If we are not allowed more passengers, we will stay on strike,” he threatened.

At the João Mateus stop in Matola, our reporter found several passengers affected by the suspension of services.

“I’ve been here for 30 minutes,” one passenger said. “I would like to get into Maputo, but it’s difficult.” “Who gains anything by this?” another asked.

Moments after the strike came into force, Calisto Cossa, president of the Municipal Council of Matola, met with transporters’ associations, having previously pleaded with them not to go on strike.

“Let’s not harm citizens who wants to get somewhere. We are already in a difficult situation, perhaps having no way of getting home. Please think about it,” the mayor urged. He secured a promise to end the strike from the cooperatives, although the situation remained unchanged at midday.

The main routes affected by the stoppage were Cidade da Matola – Xipamanine; Cidade da Matola – Malhampsene; and Cidade da Matola – Liberdade.

The Patrice Lumumba and Malhampsene neighbourhoods in Matola were also affected.

By Romeu Carlos