Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha has told taxi unions to shut down their leadership structures to help stop violence in the industry.
This follows advice from a special taxi panel set up by Premier Oscar Mabuyane to solve taxi conflicts in the province.
“The advice is in the interests of the peace and stability in the industry,” Nqatha said on Wednesday.
“If the advice is not heeded, the department will consider legal options available at its disposal including, but not limited to, withdrawing recognition accorded to the executive structures and the withdrawal of the MOU (memorandum of understanding) entered into with Santaco [the South African National Taxi Council].”
On 5 September, Nqatha met with East London Taxi Association leaders to discuss the panel’s suggestions and how to implement them.
On Wednesday, he gave the industry seven days to close down Santaco’s leadership team. He wants them to choose temporary leaders before holding proper elections, as Santaco’s rules require.
Nqatha also asked for an election plan. He suggested shutting down other taxi groups, such as Uncedo, Border Alliance, Eastern Cape Taxi Association, and Actor, because they haven’t followed proper licensing rules.
However, Uncedo Taxi Association spokesman Sandile Sifolo said they first want to check if shutting down their leadership structures is legal.
“We cannot argue with the MEC’s decision, but we would like to satisfy ourselves by seeking legal advice to determine if this decision does not infringe on our rights somehow. We will then move forward from there,” he said.
Scrolla.Africa couldn’t reach Santaco’s Eastern Cape chairperson, Zola Yolelo, for comment.
Pictured above: Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha.
Source: Supplied
