Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
07 March 2025 | 15:22 CAT

The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (Outa) has again criticised the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) for hiding information from the public.

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) finds itself at the centre of controversy as it continues to withhold critical information regarding how transaction fees for road-related services are determined. Civil society organization OUTA (Organization Undoing Tax Abuse) has been battling for over two years to gain access to this data, but the RTMC remains unyielding, even prepared to go to court to keep its calculations secret.

Advocate Stephanie Fick from OUTA, speaking on Radio Islam International, expressed deep concern over the lack of transparency. “It is mind-boggling. Why would the RTMC refuse to share such fundamental information? Transparency is a core principle of good governance,” she stated.

The RTMC, a public entity responsible for road traffic management, collects transaction fees every time a motorist renews a driver’s license, applies for a permit, or registers a vehicle. These fees apply nationally and provincially, adding up to substantial amounts. Despite public interest, the RTMC has remained silent on how these fees are calculated and where the money is directed.

Fick pointed out that secrecy of this nature damages public trust. “Every South African who pays these fees has the right to know how the money is being spent. The refusal to disclose only raises suspicions that funds might be mismanaged.” She further noted that mismanagement in public departments has resulted in wasted taxpayer money, impacting infrastructure, healthcare, and education.

The RTMC has a history of claiming documents exist, only to later admit they do not. This pattern of behaviour raises red flags about broader accountability issues. “If there is nothing to hide, why not disclose the information?” Fick questioned. She suggested that the lack of transparency fits into a bigger issue of government inefficiency and resistance to scrutiny.

OUTA remains determined to continue its legal battle, urging the RTMC to act in the interest of South Africans. “Fairness and accountability should be the standard, not secrecy,” Fick concluded.

Listen to the full interview with Annisa Essack and Stephanie Fick on Your World Today.