Hopes of end to CTN taxi violence as warring associations strike deal
Warring taxi associations in Cape Town have struck a deal that could quell the disruptions and violence in the region.
This follows weeks of deadly clashes over routes between the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Congress of Democratic Taxi Association (Codeta).
The taxi wars left commuters stranded and resulted in the closure of major routes in the city.
It has left more than 80 people dead this year alone.
Security reinforcements were also called in with extra police and soldiers on the ground, while provincial and national government met with the associations to come to a common understanding.
On Monday, Transport minister Fikile Mbalula announced that an agreement had been reached between associations at loggerheads.
“Through these ongoing discussions with the affected Associations, a number of options were placed before them by government. These options were deduced from the many engagements with the parties underpinned by an appreciation of the legal obligations of the state to protect life and property,” he said.
Operations are expected to resume in some parts of the city on Tuesday.
“Having evaluated inputs from the affected Associations, premised on the understanding that government has a duty to ensure provision of a public transport service that is safe and fully responsive to the needs of the public, government has determined a line of march which must be adhered to by all affected parties.
“As government, we have an obligation to ensure that the rule of law prevails at all times. We take this responsibility seriously and will not shy away from ensuring that the spirit and the letter of the law is not undermined by anyone.”
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He warned there would be consequences if the unrest is reignited.
“Should there be further acts of violence, all affected routes operated by the two associations will be closed for all minibus-taxi operations for a period determined by the MEC and affected operating licences will be suspended,” said Mbalula.
“In addition, both associations will be suspended or deregistered by following the prescribed process. This will be done in the interest of public safety and other operators will be authorised to provide replacement services.”
Listen to Mbalula below:
