Makananelo Manamolele / Rethabile Pitso
TAXI operators have remained adamant about implementing the proposed M23 fare despite reaching a deadlock with the government.
Representatives of the Maseru Region Transport Operators (MRTO) met officials from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport on Thursday, but the engagement failed to produce an agreement.
In an interview with the Sunday Express on Friday, MRTO spokesperson, Lebohang Moea, said the association would proceed with the fare increase from 1 May 2026.
The proposed M23 fare will apply to short-distance trips within an approximate 10km radius, currently charged at M13. Long-distance fares are expected to increase by M9.
MRTO said the adjustment was necessitated by rising operational costs, particularly recent fuel price increases. However, the association previously indicated that plans to hike fares had been under consideration for some time.
It further accused the government of delaying the implementation of new fares since last year, prompting operators to take matters into their own hands.
During that period, MRTO said it had been advised by the government not to adjust fares independently, as a consultant had been engaged to guide pricing based on prevailing economic conditions.
The association now argued that the proposed increase reflected the current economic climate, citing escalating fuel prices, vehicle licensing fees which recently rose from M400 to M750, and rising fitness test costs.
Mr Moea said operators were open to government intervention, but only if it would offset operational expenses.
“We have reasons for this hike, including fuel increases, higher licence fees and fitness costs, among others. If the government wants us to lower fares, it should consider interventions such as fuel subsidies or cash support to enable us to operate sustainably without overburdening commuters,” Mr Moea said.
He revealed that divisions had emerged within the transport sector, with some operators expressing willingness to charge M20 instead of M23.
“At Thursday’s meeting, another group of operators indicated they were prepared to charge M20. However, the rising costs of fuel and licensing continue to affect us negatively, regardless of their position.
“We value our customers, but we must also make economically sound decisions to remain operational.”
Commuters such as factory workers and students had already bemoaned the hefty increment, saying it was unreasonable.
Nonetheless, Mr Moea added that MRTO was prepared to defend its decision in court if necessary.
“Whether permitted or not, we will implement the new pricing on 1 May. We are ready to defend this position in the courts of law if challenged,” he said.
Taxi fares are regulated by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport, with the Road Transport Board and Traffic Commission responsible for approving and implementing fare structures.
When contacted for comment yesterday, Minister of Public Works and Transport, Matjato Moteane, said a decision would be made after consultations with the Road Transport Board.
“I am yet to receive recommendations from the Road Transport Board, which I will meet on Monday. I will consider its advice before gazetting new fares that take into account rising transport-related costs, including fuel and compliance expenses,” Mr Moteane said.