Douala bikers protest mandatory MTN jackets
DOUALA, Cameroon (CNA) — Commercial motorbike riders in Douala have been protesting a mandatory order from the city mayor requiring them to wear identification jackets provided by MTN Cameroon.
The riders argue that the order is unfair and unnecessary and that they should not be forced to promote MTN’s brand. Many have refused to comply with the order, citing concerns about the cost, the lack of clarity regarding the benefits, and the potential for exploitation.
The riders claim that the MTN jackets are not free, as the company deducts 100 CFA francs from their mobile money accounts after registration. They also argue that the city mayor’s partnership with MTN is a form of corruption and that the riders should not be forced to participate.
“We can’t adhere to the order of the city mayor,” said Francis, a biker in Ndokoti. “It’s pure business. He can’t get into his partnership business with the mobile telephone operator and expect us to drag us into it to be doing its publicity.”
Despite the opposition from the riders, the city mayor has remained adamant in his demand for compliance. He has announced an operation to track down unidentified motorbike riders but has not yet implemented it.
