No e-toll referendum, says Makhura
JOBURG – DA calls on Makhura to give the power to the people by calling a referendum on e-tolls and let the people decide.
Irrespective of widespread public opposition to the e-tolls, Gauteng Premier David Makhura has said the government will support the recommendations of the e-tolls advisory panel.
Makhura on 17 March said he will not support a referendum on e-tolls.
“As government, we are doing everything in our power to implement the panel’s recommendations through an intergovernmental consultation process,” said Makhura.
The Premier was answering questions asked by opposition parties in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature.
According to DA Gauteng Provincial Leader John Moodey, Makhura “wants people to continue to pay for this unfair and unjust system.”
“Today I asked the Premier to explain the reasons behind his refusal to call for a referendum, despite the fact that it is the best democratic mechanism to gauge public sentiment on a particular issue,” said Moodey.
The Premier added that a referendum is only used to resolve a stalemate, and not every public concern.
“The fact is, Gauteng has long ago reached a stalemate on e-tolls and their implementation, which is clearly illustrated by motorists’ continued refusal to pay. And now the ANC and Premier Makhura are insisting on implementing the panel’s recommendations in a desperate attempt to find a way to force people to pay through one stealth tax or another,” said Moodey.
However, the Premier made it clear that the government is seeking solutions that will benefit government and motorists.
He added that the matter is still receiving government’s full attention through the intergovernmental working group under the leadership of Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa.
