A legal dispute within the United Taxi Association (UTC), based at V.C. Bird International Airport, has culminated in a court ruling ordering the former executive members to vacate their office and provide a financial accounting of the Association’s funds.

The case was brought by members of the newly elected executive following the April 3, 2024, elections, which saw the installation of a new executive committee.  Despite the results, the new leadership, headed by Ian Joseph alleged that the ousted executive refused to step down, delaying the transition of power and withholding control over the Association’s funds.

“A full and proper accounting be done as to the use of the Association’s financial position during the period the defendants held their positions as executive members of the association,” the court ruling stated.

Efforts to mediate the matter through the Minister of Tourism and a sub-committee of Cabinet were unsuccessful, leaving the claimants with no option but to seek legal recourse.

The court has now scheduled an assessment of damages for a hearing in January 2025, which will further determine the financial impact of the former executive’s actions.

Issues with the previous executive had been brewing for some time, with members accusing the former leadership of abuse, disrespect, and delays in holding elections. Henley Daniel, the executive president at the time, denied being aware of any grievances.

Attorney Wendel Alexander represented the new executive which includes Ian Joseph (President), Dwane Francis (Vice President), Emelda Frank (Secretary), Osar Brodie (Treasurer), Keithroy Benjamin (Public Relations Officer), Leon Joseph and Daren Jeremiah (Floor Members), and Andy Henry and Bernette Jarvis (Trustees).