KINGSTON, Jamaica — Public transport leaders are set to observe a day of mourning through prayer and a special charge to stakeholders in observation of some 40 taxi operators reportedly murdered since the start of the year.

A ceremony marking the initiative will be held under the theme, “Transport Operators Lives Matter Too”, at the Spencer James Park in Half Way Tree, St Andrew on Monday, starting at 10:00 am.

Among the groups that are expected to participate are the New Kingston Taxi Association, People’s Voice Transporter, One Voice Transportation Group, All Voice Transportation Group, Jamaica Association of Transport Owners and Operators (JATOO) and Transport Operators Development Sustainable Services (TODSS).

Transport investors, operators, workers and supporters are being invited to wear something black on their person or their vehicle.

TODSS President Egerton Newman told Observer Online that he was unable to say if the 40 operators were slain while on the job.

“We don’t know but we think it is important to call for divine intervention. On the other hand, we have a responsibility to encourage our drivers to be careful and [be] observant in our line of duty,” stated Newman.

The observation will continue with a day of worship on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at the Mountain View New Testament Church of God in Kingston.

— Anthony Lewis