The Western Cape Government (WCG) and City of Cape Town have taken a landmark decision to make the agreement that ended the minibus-taxi strike a legally binding order of the High Court. This strategic move is expected to reduce the potential for conflict between taxi operators and officers on the road.
Eliminating Confusion
The minibus-taxi strike had disrupted the daily lives of many Cape Town residents, who rely on this mode of transportation. Making the agreement a court order will bolster the mutual commitment to maintaining peace, ensuring that citizens can travel through the city efficiently, safely, and with dignity.
Ensuring Safety and Compliance
As part of the agreement, six vehicles were impounded due to violations such as driving without an operating license, driver’s license, or PDP. By transforming the agreement into a court order, it eliminates any misinformation regarding the specific terms agreed upon and minimizes the risk of confrontations between officers and minibus taxi drivers or operators.
Collaborating for Better Commuter Transportation
Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Ricardo Mackenzie, has emphasized that the government’s priority is to collaborate with industry leadership to provide commuters with safe, reliable, and affordable transportation options.
Key Points of the Agreement
The following are the key points of the agreement that the WCG and City have requested to be made an order of the court:
- For a period of 14 days, starting from August 14, 2023, the Minibus-Taxi Task Team will work together to outline offenses that directly threaten commuter safety and warrant impoundment. This will inform a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to guide enforcement personnel’s actions as per the National Land Transport Act (NLTA) and Operating Licence Conditions.
- Impoundments will continue for vehicles operating without valid licenses or permits or inadequate roadworthiness.
- SANTACO will submit specific cases of vehicles they claim to have been impounded for offenses that do not directly impact commuter safety. If such cases exist, the City will make representations to the Public Prosecutor for the release of these impounded vehicles only.
- SANTACO commits to providing a minimum of 36 hours’ notice before initiating future strike actions. Additionally, a dispute escalation and resolution clause will be established, allowing matters to be elevated to the Premier and Mayor before strike action.
A Contingent Agreement
The entire agreement is contingent upon the prevention of taxi-related violence. Any resurgence of violence will render the agreement null and void.
A Promising Precedent
The collaboration between the WCG, City of Cape Town, and SANTACO sets a promising precedent for the future, fostering a sense of hope that Cape Town’s commuters will continue to benefit from safe, efficient, and affordable transportation options.
