The IFP in KwaZulu-Natal urges the MEC of Transport, Honourable Mxolisi Kaunda to intervene and fast track the process of issuing driving permits for the minibus taxi industry in the province. This call follows the rampage in the city centre by taxi drivers and owners who blocked the roads, pulled out passengers from public transport vehicles, set tyres alight on Umgeni Road and stoned vehicles causing major traffic disruptions across the city. We, as the IFP cannot seem to understand what leads to the delays of the issuing of permits.
Since 2016, minibus taxi operators have been unambiguous in their calls to the Department to speed up the process so that they can commute in peace. Many taxis have been impounded for not having permits even though an agreement was reached with the authorities that this would not happen as permits were being delayed by the transport licensing board. It is no secret that the ANC led government have failed our people by not honouring promises they make and not attending to crucial issues which need urgent attention. For them, it is business as usual conducted in air- conditioned luxury while duping the people by giving them false hope.
It is the Transport Department and the SAPS that causes unnecessary mayhem through the lack of urgency in critical matters. When people have no other recourse, they turn to violent protest to in articulation of their frustration and anger. Unfortunately, we have a reactive government that seems to rely on law enforcement for a quick fix in answer to their spectacular failure to deliver services and remedy problems. It is clear that this strategy is unsustainable and always make volatile situations even worse.
As the IFP we support the taxi driver’s grievances and urge the MEC of Transport Mxolisi Kaunda to intervene and ensure that taxi drivers get their permits without any further delays. These disruptions of traffic and economic activity in this province is unnecessary and is caused by government officials who do not do their jobs efficiently and effectively.
Issued by: Hon. Steven Moodley MPL
IFP KZN Spokesperson on Transport
083 253 2277
Date: 10 April 2019