2009-03-24: City will act against violence and intimidation
THE City of Johannesburg deplores incidents of violence and intimidation that occurred during the strike by taxi drivers in the City on Tuesday. It is regrettable that some elements among striking drivers abused their right to peaceful protest by resorting to violence.
The City has taken note of the grievances and the concerns expressed about the introduction of a Bus Rapid Transit System in Johannesburg. It should be noted that the City has engaged the taxi industry from the outset in negotiations about the new system and that there are significant voices in the taxi sector that fully support this initiative.
Johannesburg, as the fastest growing city in South Africa, requires a modern transport system that is responsive to the needs of its residents and conducive to future economic development. Such a system will have to combine elements of rapid bus transit, rapid rail (such as the Gautrain), the taxi and bus sectors as well as private transport. The current improvements to the City's roads network is part of this process of modernisation.
The City remains open for discussions and negotiations with all transport stakeholders (including the taxi industry) on how to achieve the best mixture between the various modes of transport. Our interaction with elected representatives from the taxi industry has thus far been very constructive. We urge the taxi industry to speak with one voice.
Representatives from all transport sectors joined the City in signing an agreement to promote key values in transport that should be encouraged among all road users. These values are Accountability, Cooperation, Honesty, Respect and Ubuntu. We call on elected leaders in the taxi sector to encourage their members to adhere to these values.
However, the city will not allow lawless elements within the taxi industry to hold the entire city to ransom and inconvenience thousands of commuters, motorists and workers who want to get on with their daily lives. Irresponsible strike action has a negative effect on all business in the city at a time when the country cannot afford a loss in productivity.
The City has instructed law enforcement agencies to act decisively against any element which continues to disrupt public transport from Wednesday 25 March. Those who are engaged in acts of violence or intimidation will be dealt with by the police and face the full wrath of the law.
The City wishes to apologise to the thousands of Johannesburg residents who have been inconvenienced by the strike action and to thank them for their patience. The City further assures residents and visitors that every possible step will be taken to assure their safety and to protect their right to work and move around free from violence and intimidation.
Issued on behalf of:
Cllr Rehana Moosajee
Member of the Mayoral Committee for Transport
Issued by:
Gabu Tugwana
Communication Director
Public Liaison Department
Tel: 011 407 7162
Cell: 082 495 5673
