Transporters warn of possible national strike over extortion and delayed bonus payments

Leaders in Honduras's transport sector are contemplating a nationwide strike, citing escalating extortion and delays in receiving a compensatory bonus. Nelson Fernández, a leader from the northern region, warned that the situation is pushing the sector to its knees and worsening daily.

Fernández stated that extortion has not only continued but intensified, with the number of active groups growing from two or three to six or seven. This proliferation of criminal groups poses a constant risk to the entire sector and the public.

“

A national strike is being gestated. This is bringing us to our knees; the situation gets worse every day.

In response, transport leaders from various regions held a virtual meeting to strategize. A key proposal on the table is to convene a national meeting, possibly in Siguatepeque, to formally decide on a nationwide work stoppage. This meeting aims to consolidate efforts and present a unified front.

“

Here, extortions have continued the same and improved. There are no longer two or three groups as before, now there are six or seven groups, and that is harming the population.

Beyond extortion, the leaders also denounced significant delays in the payment of the compensatory bonus. This benefit, provided by the government, is intended to help sustain public transport services and mitigate economic impacts on users. Transport workers view this bonus as a commitment from the state to support their operations.

The transport sector is urging authorities to address both the extortion crisis and the bonus payment delays promptly. They warn that if viable solutions are not provided soon, their planned pressure tactics will escalate and have nationwide repercussions.

“

This benefit constitutes a commitment acquired by the State to support the operation of public transport and avoid greater economic impact on users.