Subheading: The City Calls for Peaceful Protest and Public Safety During Stay-Away
On August 2, 2023, the City of Cape Town learned of the South African National Taxi Council’s (SANTACO) decision to halt minibus-taxi services from August 3 to August 10 in the Western Cape. This stay-away will affect commuters, forcing them to seek alternative transportation.
City Calls for Peaceful Protest
Given the recent violent incidents and transport service disruptions, the city authorities call on minibus-taxi operators and industry representatives to avoid intimidation, violence, and interference with other public transport services like MyCiTi bus service, e-hailing vehicles, and others.
Councillor Rob Quintas, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, expressed disappointment with SANTACO’s decision and condemned the violent protests happening near the Khayelitsha taxi rank, a bus set alight in Nyanga, MyCiTi bus passengers being forced off buses, two Law Enforcement vehicles stoned in Khayelitsha, and the N2 outbound currently blocked by slow-moving minibus-taxis.
City Rejects Discriminatory Practices Claim
SANTACO withdrew from negotiations with the City and the Western Cape Government (WCG) last week, alleging unfair discriminatory practices towards minibus-taxis as the reason for the stay-away. Councillor Quintas refuted these claims. He stated that the focus is on unroadworthy vehicles, dangerous traffic violations, and criminal investigations linked to some minibus-taxis. The primary concern, he added, is passenger safety.
City Appeals for Peaceful Resolution
Councillor Quintas mentioned that SANTACO requested the president of South Africa’s personal intervention, despite their withdrawal from talks with the City and WCG. He reaffirmed the City’s commitment to finding a peaceful resolution and urged SANTACO to return to negotiations. The discussions are for the benefit of the operators, the industry, its employees, and the thousands of commuters relying on minibus-taxis for transportation.
City Assures Public Safety
During the stay-away, the City will closely monitor routes and deploy Law Enforcement for regular patrols, ensuring the safety and security of the public. Commuters who rely on minibus-taxis are advised to make alternative travel arrangements or work from home whenever possible over the next six days.
To maintain public safety, the City is deploying Law Enforcement officers to escort MyCiTi buses. Golden Arrow buses continue to operate under high alert and maintain close coordination with Law Enforcement. City authorities promise to keep the public informed during the coming days as best as possible.
City Calls for Cooperation
As Cape Town navigates this challenging period, it is essential for all parties to work together towards a peaceful resolution, respecting the rule of law and prioritizing the safety and well-being of all residents.
