WATCH: Community Safety MEC lashes Santaco for traffic chaos
Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane, has condemned this morning’s disruptive taxi strike by members of taxi association Santaco.
Traffic was brought to a complete standstill as the taxi drivers blocked the major routes between Tshwane and Johannesburg.
The chaos on the roads prevented many people from going to work, while learners have also been urged to stay at home.
“We condemn the violence, intimidation and lawlessness following protest action by Santaco,” Nkosi-Malobane says.
“I am deeply disappointed in the manner in which Santaco members conducted themselves during protest action this morning."
#TaxiStrike @GP_CommSafety MEC Comrade @NkosiMalobane says she is "disappointed in the actions of SANTACO" pic.twitter.com/8DTu9gMuhP
— Gauteng ANC (@GautengANC) June 15, 2017
The MEC says while the right to protest is a constitutional right, the intimidation of non-striking members of communities cannot be condoned.
"The strike has a negative impact on our economy since Gauteng is the economic hub of our country."
Meanwhile. the MEC for Education in Gauteng, Panyaza Lesufi, has urged parents not to send their children to school despite the ongoing mid-year examinations.
University students have also been assured that they won’t be disadvantaged if they cannot make it to campus as a result of the taxi strike.