Drivers Association refutes Muizzu’s claims of consultation, says no opportunity was given
Sincere efforts have been made to consult with the current government for the benefit of taxi drivers and all parties in the taxi sector
As part of the protest staged by taxi drivers on 24-04-2025
In connection with the President's claims that he conducts relevant consultations to improve public services, the Drivers’ Association of Maldives stated that President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu did not give taxi drivers an opportunity to offer input or advice, when consultations were requested.
In an interview given to the state media PSM on April 27, the president said that he “always” welcomes consultation and discussion to improve things.
In a press release issued by the Drivers Association with details of the letters sent to consult with the president regarding the matter, it was stated that while the president continues to claim that he encourages consultation so openly, the Drivers Association of Maldives considers it important to clarify the truth to taxi drivers, centers, taxi application operators, and all Maldivian citizens about the efforts made to seek President Muizzu's advice and consultation.
In this regard, DAM had officially requested to meet with President Muizzu twice. The first letter number: DAM/LT/2024/15 was sent approximately six months ago on 30 October 2024, while the second letter number: DAM/LT/2025/01 was sent on 16 February 2025.
Both letters requested an opportunity to consult on drivers' concerns. They are to have specifically requested for an opportunity to consult with the president regarding issues affecting taxi operators due to the government's taxi fleet.
After sending these two letters, the association says they called the President's Office to confirm receipt of the letters. Apart from email confirmation of receipt of the letters, no information has been received so far regarding these letters, and no consultation meeting has been arranged, as mentioned by President Muizzu.
Therefore, the association's statement says that while the president has claimed that he provides space for consultation and sharing concerns, the repeated efforts over many months show a different reality where words and actions do not align.
To demonstrate that the work being done by the Drivers Association is responsible, transparent, and open to constructive consultation, the association has also publicized the two letters sent to the President's Office.
They have called on the president to act on the letter sent by the association to demonstrate the truth and firmness of his statement.
Sincere efforts have been made to consult with the current government for the benefit of taxi drivers and all parties in the taxi sector. The current administration and the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation have not given the association an opportunity to consult to hear the concerns regarding the issue.
