The Inkatha Freedom Party calls on drivers to obey traffic rules and regulations to reduce the rate and fatalities of road traffic crashes after ten people died when a bakkie and a minibus taxi collided head-on near the De Hoop Dam, near Burgersfort in Limpopo, on Sunday afternoon.
“As the IFP we are very much concerned about road accidents. Drivers are responsible for the safety of their passengers. As long as they continue driving recklessly, road accidents will continue to occur.
Carelessness is one of the causes of road accidents in our country; for instance, driving while texting. Passengers should also be vigilant enough to protest if drivers are speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol,” said IFP National Spokesperson on Transport, Mr Khethamabala Sithole MP.
“For the nation to succeed in its campaigns against road carnage, there is a need for all road users to change their attitudes to road usage.
Furthermore, the IFP calls for a nationwide campaign focused on, amongst others, public transport vehicles, and reckless driving. The aim of this operation should not only be to check for vehicle and driver fitness amongst passenger-carrying vehicles, but also drivers who blatantly disregard road traffic rules and regulations.
We are also concerned that there is tacit acceptance of the morbid fact that when holidays come around in South Africa, we know that dozens (if not more) will die in road accidents,” continued Mr Sithole.
“I also extend my sympathy to the Limpopo and National department of transport because this turned to undermine all their efforts to end road carnages and reduce them into a department of mass funerals.
Road accidents have dire consequences on the economy of a country. Whenever accidents occur, the country loses part of its labour force and almost every economic sector is affected. Many bread winners have lost their lives and left those who rely on them for livelihood with nowhere to turn to.
On behalf of our leader, His Excellency Prince Mangosuthu Buthelezi, MP, I extend my heartfelt condolences to families of the deceased and wish the injured speedy recovery,” concluded Mr Sithole
Issued by:
Mr Khethamabala Sithole MP
IFP National Spokesperson on Transport
072 784 1909