Opposition party summons Transport Minister over taxi restrictions

The People’s Democratic Party of Uzbekistan has formally requested an explanation from the Minister of Transport regarding the newly introduced restrictions on non-routable taxi operations. The request was announced on the party’s official Telegram channel.

According to the party, the recent decision to limit non-routable taxi services in Tashkent has sparked significant public concern and widespread criticism. Under the new regulation, drivers are permitted to operate only within their own region or adjacent regions, based on vehicle registration.

The party argues that this procedure contradicts Article 67 of the recently adopted Constitution of Uzbekistan.

“In accordance with our Constitution, the state ensures a favorable investment and business environment. The unity of the economic space, the free movement of goods, services, labor, and financial resources is guaranteed throughout the territory of Uzbekistan,” the party stated.

The statement further emphasizes that restricting unscheduled taxi operations could lead to the emergence of illegal activities, hinder citizens’ freedom to work, and most importantly, infringe on their constitutional rights.

“In addition, Article 42 of the Constitution guarantees everyone the right to decent work, the freedom to choose their profession and type of activity, and protection from unemployment, as provided by law. Many of our citizens involved in unscheduled taxi operations are lawfully self-employed individuals. They have obtained the necessary licenses and pay taxes accordingly,” party representatives said.

The People’s Democratic Party stressed that there are no legal grounds for imposing such restrictions, and the regulation clearly contradicts constitutional norms.

“Based on these points, the People’s Democratic Party faction in the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis has sent a request to the Minister of Transport to provide a detailed explanation. The Minister has been invited to respond to parliamentary questions during the upcoming government hour focused on resolving issues in the transport sector,” the statement concluded.

It should be noted that during a plenary session of the Legislative Chamber on May 13, the People’s Democratic Party faction announced its formal status as an opposition party in parliament. This was confirmed by Ulugbek Inoyatov, head of the party's faction, in an official statement.