Sir – Despite efforts, violence in the taxi industry continues unabated with some saying that it has actually worsened. This ongoing violence has to be addressed and curbed in the interest of all road users.
The IFP believes that it has become necessary for the Premier to urgently intervene by appointing a commission of inquiry. We urge the Premier to emulate the example of his Gauteng counterpart, Premier David Makhura who has appointed a commission to probe taxi violence.
Simply condoning such gratuitous violence and offering condolences to the bereaved families is not enough and will not put an end to the violence. The time for complacency and tepid attempts are over.
Holding prayer meetings and Imbizos have proven to be not the solution at addressing and stemming the tide of the senseless violence. It is time for action.
We are concerned about the killing of taxi bosses belonging to the Dolphin Coast Taxi Association. The recent death of Justin Pillay underscores the rampant killings that has plagued the association. Pillay was sitting in his vehicle when unknown gunmen fired several shots at him, fatally wounding him before escaping.
This and other killings require urgent action from government. The commission should investigate the root causes of violence in the taxi industry such as warlords who continue to order the killings and who are involved in other criminal activities.
The IFP further calls on the KZN MEC of Transport Bheki Ntuli to devise a new comprehensive plan to address ongoing taxi violence in KZN.
We simply cannot ignore that our roads have become killing field by lawless individuals who want monopoly and control so desperately that they resort to killing. Urgent action is needed before the holiday season begins so that we can convince tourist and citizens that we care about their safety on our roads.
Steven Moodley, KZN IFP Spokesperson on Transport
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