The Maseru Regional Taxi Operators (MRTO) announced that they will follow new COVID-19 regulations, stated by Prime Minister Dr. Moeketsi Majoro on Saturday, though they need support from the government on this matter.

MRTO Spokesperson Mr. Lebohang Moea said as COVID-19 has spread throughout the country, they request the Government of Lesotho to reduce tax rates at the Ministry of Transport, and to subsidize public transport for the loss they encounter with the reduced number of passengers they take.

He said taxi owners bought huge taxis in order to generate higher income through a large number of passengers they carry, and so they need subsidy now that the number of their passengers is reduced during the fight against COVID-19.

Mr. Moea indicated that they are not against the regulations meant to reduce the spread of COVID-19 that cannot be blamed to anyone, but they urge the government not to starve them.

In his statement he said according to the new regulations, buses are allowed to carry 13 passengers, 9 passengers for taxis and 3 passengers for 4+1’s.