Peruvian transporters demand inclusion in talks, threaten 24-hour strike

Transport unions in Peru are demanding greater inclusion in government discussions and subsidies, citing a rise in attacks against drivers and owners. Leaders met on August 25 to address the sector's problems and are considering a 24-hour strike if their concerns are not addressed.

Walter Carrera, president of ASOTRANI-Peru, emphasized the need for both drivers and owners to benefit from subsidies, criticizing the current decree that he says only favors owners. He also called for the repeal of laws that he believes enable organized crime and hinder effective government initiatives against rising criminality.

Other union leaders echoed these sentiments. Elmer Mercado, coordinator of Land Transport Workers, criticized transport managers for prioritizing route bonuses and fleet expansions over driver safety amid a wave of driver assassinations. He threatened an indefinite strike to defend transport workers.

Paulina Hermoza, vice president of COTRA-Peru, denounced decades of alleged extortion by some business owners who demand up to $1,000 every six months for circulation permits. The unions plan to send a formal document to Keiko Fujimori requesting a meeting, and will evaluate a 24-hour work stoppage if they receive no response.