In a series of harsh criticisms levelled at JP Smith, Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga made a strong call for the City of Cape Town to release impounded taxis under the city’s amended traffic bylaws.
Minister Chikunga wages war with JP Smith over ‘illegal’ traffic by-laws
This move comes amidst an ongoing taxi strike organised by SANTACO in the Western Cape.
Minister Chikunga addressed the media in Midrand, emphasising the need for the release of these taxis without any conditions, but noted that impoundments made under national laws remain unaffected by this directive.
The central point of contention revolves around the operating conditions set forth by the City of Cape Town, which the taxi industry has expressed reservations about.
Minister Chikunga emphasised that while cities have the authority to govern within their jurisdictions, these actions must remain in alignment with national laws to ensure consistency and fairness.
In her statement, Minister Chikunga urged the City of Cape Town to re-engage in negotiations with the taxi industry to address the areas of disagreement.
She stressed the importance of finding a genuine and lasting resolution to the current challenges, demonstrating a commitment to fostering a productive dialogue between stakeholders.
“Our efforts to regulate the taxi industry must be underpinned by mutual respect of the law and a genuine effort to uplift this industry and ensure that it assumes its place in the broader public transport industry, characterised by respect for the law and the rights of others,” she said.
The minister expressed strong condemnation for the acts of violence and intimidation that have marred the ongoing strike.
She called on the taxi industry to denounce any form of violence and to uphold the rights of citizens to travel and access essential services without disruption.
“It can never be acceptable for those who are aggrieved by the actions of the city to blockade roads and undermine the rights of ordinary citizens to travel or access schools, places of work and economic activity,” Chikunga added.
JP Smith blasts Chikunga in response to taxi strike ultimatum
In response to Minister Chikunga’s statements, JP Smith issued a fiery retort, accusing her of making false statements and attempting to incite further violence.
Smith contended that no minibus taxi had been impounded within Cape Town under the by-law in question, highlighting that such impoundments were executed under her own National Land Transport Act.
“No minibus taxi has ever been impounded within Cape Town, because of a by-law. Never. Taxis have only been impounded under her National Land Transport Act. It’s her Act. From 2009. If it is illegal, how come she only decided this today? After 14 years?” JP Smith wrote in a Facebook post.
As the standoff between the taxi industry and authorities continues, the activity around the ongoing taxi strike remains a focal point of attention.
The lack of reported violence on Tuesday is seen as a positive development, prompting speculation on whether the City of Cape Town will heed Minister Chikunga’s call for the immediate release of impounded taxis.