Admin
24 Jul, 2018
Government is failing or unwilling to solve taxi violence
Statement by Mr Bongani Msomi, UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) condemns, in the strongest possible terms, the continued violence in the taxi industry. The killing of eleven taxi operators at the weekend is senseless and not long ago, many lives were lost in Mthatha in taxi violence. It cannot be business as usual while our people are suffering. The country is in crisis, as far too many people lose their lives as taxi violence continues to pervade many areas in the country. This needs to come to an end. It is clear that local authorities have failed to solve the problem. The national authorities should intervene swiftly and find lasting solutions to the perennial taxi wars. We also convey a message of condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives.
Admin
08 Nov, 2017
UDM condemns violent taxi strike
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. End
Admin
23 May, 2017
UDM condemns taxi violence in KZN
Statement issued by Bongani Msomi – UDM Secretary General The United Democratic Movement (UDM) is saddened by the on-going taxi wars that continue to take innocent lives in KwaZulu Natal. The wars have been going on for some time and nothing effective has been done to stop them. Innocent people are being killed. Taxi operators, taxi associations and security agencies must find ways to resolve these problems of routes. The situation is not acceptable. The recent shootouts at Nongoma and Mbumbulu claimed lives of four passengers plus two drivers respectively. UDM calls upon the Minister of Police, Fikile Mbalula and the MEC for Safety and Security in KZN, Mxolisi Kaunda to do all in their power to stop this carnage. The MEC must also come clean and take the nation in his confidence about what he together with his department have done to address the backlog issuing route permits. Enough is enough. End
