Former Capitol Bus Company drivers who have been protesting in front of the company’s office since last month decided yesterday to halt demonstrations temporarily after city hall intervened in the dispute.

Following a meeting with Capitol and unions brokered by Phnom Penh Deputy Governor Khoung Sreng on Tuesday, driver representative Hin Moeun said he had agreed to call off protests while the drivers wait for the company to set a date for negotiations.

Moeun said workers were tired of protesting in the sun and wanted a resolution soon, but added if the delay brought nothing, “we will continue protests”.

According to city hall’s official Facebook page, the deputy governor asked for three points to be considered: that protests be called off, that the company consider rehiring the drivers, and that if the drivers were to be rehired, unions be able to fight for their working conditions.

However, Hor Ko Van, assistant to Capitol’s director, said the company would stand by its policy not to rehire the drivers.

The 45 drivers say they were fired for trying to start a union, which the company denies.