President Cyril Ramaphosa calls on affected parties to resolve taxi strike

President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on taxi operators and the City of Cape Town to resolve their issues through negotiations. Ramaphosa made the remarks during his Women's Day address at the Union Buildings.

PICTURE: Twitter - @PresidencyZA

The official government event was originally set to take place in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, but was moved to Tshwane amid the violent taxi strike.

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) declared a stay-away last week over mainly, what it believes to be the unfair impounding of their mini-bus taxis by the City.

At least five people have died while numerous industries were brought to a standstill.

On Tuesday the Western Cape High Court granted the City of Cape Town and Golden Arrow Bus Services an interdict against Santaco.

"As we celebrate Women’s Day here at the Union Buildings, we are disturbed by the troubling events in the city of Cape Town. While our democracy protects peaceful protest and lawful strike action, we strongly condemn the violence and destruction caused by this dispute. We are appalled by the killings and assaults that have taken place,’’ Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa said despite the problems faced by taxi industry, the law must be upheld.

"Blocked roads lead to blocked business, blocked education and blocked health services, which will have long-lasting effects on life in the city. We must uphold the law and we must solve problems through meaningful dialogue.

 

Done by: Alungile Njemla