The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) returned from its meeting with the EFF with positive news for commuters ahead of the national shutdown taking place on Monday, 20 March 2023.
SANTACO details taxi plans for EFF national shutdown
In a statement released on Thursday, the taxi group confirmed that following a meeting with the EFF’s leadership, a decision was taken to “operate as normal on the day of the national shutdown.”
“Notwithstanding its decision not to participate in the national shutdown, SANTACO respects the reasons of the EFF to embark on a national shutdown protest,” SANTACO added.
SANTACO’s decision comes a day after EFF commander-in-chief Julius Malema confirmed his intentions to meet with the taxi group to forge cooperation with the public transport industry to ensure no lines are blurred when drivers come face-to-face with protesters.
“Our meeting with SANTACO it’s [a courteous] meeting to say there will be protesters on the roads and the taxis and all of that should take that into consideration as they prepare for that day to operate. There shouldn’t be unnecessary conflict and confrontation between ourselves and the taxis,” he said.
While the outcome of the meeting was not encouraging for Malema’s plans to cause ultimate destruction, the EFF leader did receive assurances from taxi bosses that protesters will be afforded space “in pursuit of our diverse interests and intended objectives of the day.”
Putco busses suspended on Monday, 20 March 2023
Bus operator Putco, on the other hand, confirmed in a statement that following a safety and risk assessment, a decision was taken to suspend its schedule on Monday, 20 March 2023.
“The in-depth analysis uncovered threats of intimidation and a planned interruption of economic activities by disrupting road networks to prevent trucks and buses from operating,” Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu said.
Malema, however, has vehemently denied reports that EFF ground forces have been warning businesses to remain closed “to avoid the looting.”
In fact, the Red Berets’ commander-in-chief categorically claimed he was aware of the DA’s alleged plot to hire ‘agent provocateurs’ “who are going to be planted amongst the protesters of the EFF so that they can undermine the peaceful protest.”
“The DA has taken a decision to defend Ramaphosa, and is masquerading as protecting business and the economy of South Africa, which is not true,” he said.