Media Release by Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Minister Of Mobility
Yesterday morning, a GoGeorge bus travelling from Pacaltsdorp was petrol bombed, with 14 people taken to hospital and the bus destroyed. I condemn these acts of violence in the strongest possible terms and will not accept any intimidation in relation to the rollout of the GoGeorge service to Thembalethu.
Today, along with my Department, I met with SANTACO-WC leadership to discuss this incident and its implications. Over the coming days, I will visit George to engage with stakeholders to ensure a smooth and peaceful rollout of the new routes as planned.
The Western Cape Government is committed to providing safe, affordable and reliable public transport to all our communities in the Province, and we note that the Thembalethu community has been waiting for the GoGeorge service for many years now.
My thoughts are with those who were injured, their families and their community, and I wish them a speedy and full recovery.
Provincial Chairperson for SANTACO-WC, Mr Mandla Hermanus, said, “We condemn the violent attack on a bus in George and urge minibus taxi operators to keep the health and safety of all commuters in mind."
Listen: Rollout of GoGeorge in Thembalethu to proceed as planned
Media Queries:
Rebecca Campbell
Spokesperson for Minister Ricardo Mackenzie
Ministry of Mobility
Cell: 076 783 2583