Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

2-minute read
12 August 2023 | 21:16 CAT

Image: News24

National ministers and the City of Cape Town were embroiled in a war of words this week after violence erupted following the announcement of a taxi strike in Cape Town. At least three people were killed, public transport buses torched, and schools and health clinics forced to close as riots broke out. Hundreds of thousands of people were also left stranded.

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis is sticking to his guns and refuses to release the impounded vehicles before taxi drivers have paid outstanding fines. National Minister of Transport Sindisiwe Chikunga demanded that the taxis be immediately removed. At the same time, Police Minister Bheki Cele stated that the City of Cape Town officials must swallow what he called their arrogance and negotiate.

While the strike has not been resolved, questions are being asked about whether political parties are using the taxi strike for electioneering purposes ahead of next year’s elections.

Political Analyst Amanda Gouws said the situation is much more complicated. However, there is campaigning at play.

“The wants to show its in control and that will enforce the law as many of the taxi driver’s do think that they are above the law,” Gouws said.

Gouws argues that the taxi industry needs to be regulated, which has been coming along for decades.

“There is a competition between taxi’s with and without permits. Amongst these are those who the law and those who don’t. It is not fair to those who adhere, causing the commuters to suffer the most,” she added.

It has been a week since the Santaco mini-bus strike, which is crippling the economy of the surrounding areas. On the other hand, Gouws said if the DA now agrees to release the impounded taxis, there would be no point in the exercise.

“It seems no progress has been made between the DA and Santaco, so the Western Cape may potentially face another crippling week in the face of violence,” she added.

Listen to the full interview with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat on Sabahul Muslim.