City of Cape Town and Western Cape Government heads to court, to seek urgent interdict against SANTACO strike

The City of Cape Town and Western Cape Government is heading to court, to seek an urgent interdict against violence caused, due to South African National Taxi Council – Western Cape (SANTACO – WC) embarking on a 6-day strike.

PICTURE: Twitter - @NewsNoteNetwork

SANTACO Western Cape embarked on a stay away as of Thursday afternoon, following grievances with the local and provincial government, as it suspended its participation in the Minibus Taxi Task Team, citing two reasons: firstly, the “increase and continuous impoundments of vehicles”, and secondly, “lack of progress on issues tabled”.

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has condemned the attack and confirmed that the City is in the process of seeking an urgent interdict against the violence.

‘’The City of Cape Town condemns the violence and disruption perpetrated by SANTACO associated drivers and operators today, following their call for a taxi stay away. We will work with the SAPS to enforce the law and hold anyone guilty of perpetrating public violence accountable. We will also not hesitate to lay a civil claim for any damages to infrastructure resulting from this strike.

‘’While we respect the right to peaceful protest, violence and intimidation have no place in Cape Town. City authorities are on high alert and we will not accept the blockading of routes and violent intimidation of peaceful commuters and non-striking transport operators,’’ added hill-Lewis.

PICTURE: Pixabay

The Cape Town Mayor alleges that Police Minister, Bheki Cele, was involved in industry strike action talks.

‘’That a Minister in government responsible for policing, could convene a meeting with the taxi industry that results in a strike call, knowing full well this will lead to violence, is unacceptable.’ said Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.

*COMMENTARY FROM THE POLICE MINISTRYWILL BE ADDED, AS SOON AS WE RECEIVE IT

 

Done by: Mitchum George