Western Cape residents can breathe a sigh of relief, as the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) released a press statement on Thursday evening 10 August 2023, calling off the taxi strike in Western Capewith immediate effect.
SANTACO’s press statement reads “It is with profound relief that we announce the immediate cession of the Stay Away. This comes after painstaking deliberations and immense pressure on all parties involved.”
Mandla Hermanus, Chairperson of SANTACO Western Cape, further extended his condolences to the families whom have lost their loved ones due to the taxi strike, on behalf of SANTACO.
Mandla Hermanus also apologised to everyone who was negatively affected by the taxi strike.
“It deeply saddens and disappoints us that it took this long for all parties to find a resolution. The wellbeing of our community and the public has always been our top priority, and it pains us to witness the unnecessary pain and suffering that transpired.”, the statement reads.
According to SANTACO’s press statement, the government and the taxi industry have managed to find a common ground, regarding their previous conflict. The press statement further outlines that there has been an agreement between the government and the taxi industry. The agreement is that within the next 14 working days, the government will have to release vehicles that were wrongfully impounded.
The calling off of this strike by SANTACO, comes as a relief to Western Cape residents, as this strike took place for an entire week. It has led to some people losing their lives, properties being damaged, busses and other vehicles torched.
The next 14 days, will serve as an indicator as to whether the conflict between the government and the taxi industry, has been really resolved or the strike would be brought back again by the taxi industry, should the government not comply with the agreement.
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Written by: Prince Neo Mokwena
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