Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is concerned by the timing of the protesting taxi industry in many parts of Gauteng. This is a critical time for scholars especially those doing Grade 12 who are busy writing their final exams.
We understand the frustration of the taxi industry however we are much concerned with the effects of the protest towards pupils and the innocent commuters. We have received reports of violent attacks as the strike continues, and, we condemn in strongest terms these attacks. It cannot be that every time taxi industry goes to strike we must expect that innocent people are negatively affected by the industrial action.
There has to be a better way to pass grievances and to be heard because those affected are just ordinary people and are the ones who support and sustain the industry. The South African National Taxi Council has to find a civil way of doing things.
It is everyone’s right to go on strike, but no life must be threatened because of the other.
Taxi bosses and all the stakeholders involved must find ways to come up with solutions other than resorting to the victimisation of commuters and other motorists.
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