A new wave of tension has engulfed Bamenda following the calls for drivers to change taxi colors from the traditional yellow to blue and white. Following recent revelations by pro-government propagandist, Titus Nkonda, known as MKPD, it is not clear whose agenda the policy is serving.
What is clear is that the policy shift has not only caused the number of yellow taxis on the streets to dwindle but has also transformed certain areas into no-go zones for taxis, particularly in the evenings.
The resultant fear and anger are palpable among both taxi drivers and passengers.
“We are going through a trying moment. Passengers are no longer comfortable taking taxis in Bamenda. The crisis has caused more harm than good,” lamented Bouba Edwin, a local taxi driver.
“If the None State Armed Groups are out to liberate us, then they should allow us to breathe. We do not see why they are targeting us. Also, security forces should have a friendly manner of approach towards us drivers; they should behave like trained people. Their focus is no longer security but money on the highway.”
Across Bamenda, many drivers share the sentiment that their burden could be lightened if they were allowed to adopt taxi colors other than blue, white, or yellow.
“The administration should allow us to paint our taxis any other color so that we can avoid these burnings here and there,” suggested Daniel, another taxi driver.
The frequent attacks on taxis have plunged families into hardship, making daily life increasingly challenging. “We are paying rents, and we have to pay fees next month. We are suffering,” said Andrew Anye, another driver affected by the crisis.
“The government is legitimate. The separatists should first liberate us like they claim before inflicting such pains. If we paint from yellow to blue and white, where do we drive the taxis? Where do we acquire the car documents?” questioned yet another driver.
Since the institution of the color change, at least six taxis have been burnt, devastating the livelihoods of many families.
Drivers are appealing for a sense of reasoning from the separatists, urging them to reconsider their strategies if they truly have the population’s best interests at heart.
