Colombia: Taxi drivers to strike and protest in several cities on Sept. 12

Unionized taxi drivers affiliated with the Taxi Confederation (Confederation de Taxis, CONFETAX), plan to protest and strike in multiple locations across Colombia on Sept. 12. The purpose of the action is to demand that authorities sanction private transport providers that do not follow certification processes.

The main protest will be Medellin, where participating drivers will demonstrate near the Jumbo La 65 at the intersection of Avenida San Juan and Carrera 65 starting at 07:30. Union leaders assert that related protests will take place outside the Virgilio Barco Library, the TransMilenio bus system's CAD station, and the Plaza Imperial shopping mall on Calle 174 in Bogota starting at 7:30; however, some local labor leaders claim no protests are schedules in the Colombian capital. Demonstrations are also likely in Envigado, Bello, Ibague, Manizales, Valledupar and Monteria.

Transport and business disruptions are likely on Sept. 12 in cities affected by the demonstrations and strike. Increased demand for other modes of transport, including bus and metro services, is also likely. Clashes between protesters and police cannot be ruled out.