The Shefa Public Land Transport Association (SPLTA) plans to increase its membership fee to VT 7,000 as part of a new plan to invest in a fuel and insurance business.

The project has been in development since 2015.

President of Shefa Public Land Transport, Donald Massing, told VBTC News that the initiative aims to raise awareness among over 4,000 members.

“The money comes back to the members. Members will benefit 80%, and 20% goes to administration. There are certain companies that hold the members,” Massing said.

Chief Executive Officer of PLTA, Reginald Tabi, said the plan must comply with the association’s constitution.

“PLTA had taken some drivers or owners of transport to take their portion of this increase. Initially, the membership fee was VT 3,000 per year. Any proposed increase must go through the executive committee, be approved, and include member agreement,” Tabi said.

Longtime bus driver Enock Meltesale expressed disagreement with the increase.

“VT 7,000 is not fair. Don’t put extra burden on hardworking drivers. I don’t support this; it should remain at VT 3,000. The VT 7,000 might not bring any profit,” he said.

Another driver said he had not been informed about the proposed increase.

However, Massing noted that some members support the plan and awareness efforts are ongoing as people visit the office.