The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) will embark on a shutdown in Cape Town on Monday, 2 October 2023.
EFF Cape Town shutdown is limited to these rules
This planned protest comes with specific conditions, including refraining from intimidating City staff, entering the Ndabeni pound, and excluding taxis from the procession.
Notably, several political parties and civic organisations are set to join the EFF’s march, although participation is limited to 1 000 participants.
These proposed shutdowns have occurred periodically in the past but have rarely materialised or resulted in significant consequences. Often, they cause alarm when messages spread through platforms such as WhatsApp and social media.
City officials have expressed their disapproval of this protest tactic, citing the added strain it places on City employees who are already dealing with challenges like load shedding and high fuel costs.
City law enforcement will use drones to monitor EFF protest
In anticipation of potential disruptions or violence during the protest, the City has developed an operational plan for the day.
This plan includes provisions for addressing public disorder and violence, incorporating technologies such as drones and CCTV for an effective response.
Furthermore, the City has made it clear that it will not hesitate to pursue criminal and civil legal action against protest organisers or political parties responsible for gatherings or protests resulting in violence or damage to public or private property.
This stance aligns with actions the City has already taken in response to violent protests initiated by the EFF and the National Truck Drivers’ Association (NCC).
SANTACO clears the air on its role in EFF Cape Town shutdown
In a separate development, the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) has distanced itself from the planned protest on Monday. SANTACO’s first deputy chairperson, Nceba Enge, confirmed that taxis would operate as usual, and operators attending the march would do so in their capacity as members of their respective political parties.
Earlier, the Minibus Taxi Task Team successfully concluded negotiations and is proceeding with the implementation of an agreement to ensure uninterrupted transport operations.
The City has commended SANTACO for not participating in the stay-away call and confirming their intention to remain operational on the day of the protest.
This development follows a month of negotiations between the City of Cape Town, the Western Cape Government, and SANTACO-WC.
During this period, outstanding points of disagreement regarding enforcement measurements for the minibus taxi industry were addressed.
All parties involved expressed satisfaction with their mutual commitment to safe, reliable, and affordable transport for commuters.
The “implementation period” for the taxi agreement will continue until 30 November 2023.
During this time, the Provincial Regulatory Entity will review its operating license conditions, and the Minibus Taxi Task Team will continue its work.