Statement by Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works Daylin Mitchell
I was informed of a planned march to hand over a memorandum with grievances and demands related to the taxi industry. The leadership of the taxi industry made commitments that this would be a peaceful protest and that it would not disrupt the operations of other public transport providers. This commitment has not been honoured by elements within the industry.
I have received reports of attacks on Golden Arrow buses, of infrastructure being set on fire, and of other damage to private property. I have been informed of injuries to people of this city. This is unacceptable.
The Western Cape Government strongly condemns these violent acts. While I respect the right of aggrieved parties to protest, violence is never an answer, and the destruction of property weakens the hand of protestors and undermines the rights of others.
I have been informed that other public transport providers are considering suspending their operations in order to protect property, assets and the lives of staff and commuters. This will have a severe impact on people traveling to and from work, school and to access services such as healthcare. We cannot afford this while our economy is only starting to show recovery from two very tough years. These senseless acts are putting jobs at risk. They are putting lives at risk.
Western Cape Premier Alan Winde said: “This violence and disruption impacts our most vulnerable communities and must be condemned in the strongest terms. I think of the many people who are unable to get to work and put food on the table, as we face the second pandemic of joblessness. I also think of the learners who are unable to get to school. We cannot accept these violent acts and I call on the SAPS to ensure that law is upheld and that our residents are kept safe. All those responsible for this violence must be arrested and prosecuted”
I call on the South African Police Service to use its expertise to restore order. I call on industry leadership to bring rogue members to order. I know that these senseless acts are being perpetrated by a particular grouping inside the industry, supported by opportunistic criminals.
I will use all regulatory and legislative mechanisms to deal with this issue which include suspending or even withdrawing operating licences and holding associations accountable for the actions. I will not stand by and allow a handful of opportunists to hold the commuters of this province hostage. I have said it before and I maintain that illegal and criminal acts will not be tolerated.
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Email: Jandre.Bakker@westerncape.gov.za