The Amalgamated Union of App-based Transport Workers has lamented the 25 per cent increase by the app-based firms, directing its members to begin a nationwide strike today.
According to the union’s statement, the app-based firms’ increase stood between 25 to 30 per cent, far from the union’s demand for a 200 per cent increase and a 50 per cent reduction in commission, respectively.
The drivers, who said they could no longer work under such conditions, noted that they had previously appealed to the companies to reduce their commissions because they did not reflect industry benchmark commissions.
They urged all app-based workers across the country to be ready to fight the menace until victory was achieved.
The statement read in part:
“During our last meeting, the union recommended a flat commission of 10 per cent or 50 per cent off their current commission.
“This will help us cope with maintenance, spare parts, overhead, and fuel increases.
“We can no longer tolerate any act of dictatorial practices by any app company.
“Because we are workers, and as an organised union, we have written several letters to these companies for a round table discussion. However, they have remained adamant with a deliberate intention to avoid responsibility.
“So, due to this insensitivity, the union is directing all its members across the nation to shut down their service on all ride-hailing applications from Wednesday, June 7, 2023.”
