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Media Statement: SAHRC concerned about Taxi Violence in the Western Cape
Attention Editors and Reporters
22 July 2021
The South African Human Rights Commission (the SAHRC or the Commission) has noted, with shock and sadness, reports on the on-going taxi violence that is taking place in the Western Cape, particularly in the Cape Town Metropolitan area. The Commission is concerned and appeals for tolerance in the midst of the escalating violence between the two Taxi Associations (CODETA and CATA) which also directly impacts on the safety, livelihood and lives of communities, commuters and the general public. Such conduct is extremely concerning, particularly given that it is impacting communities that already face great hardship amidst the current restrictions related to the COVID 19 pandemic, and resultant economic downturn. The Commission therefore strongly urges all parties to continue with engagements aimed at finding common ground and a peaceful resolution to the dispute.
22 July 2021
The South African Human Rights Commission (the SAHRC or the Commission) has noted, with shock and sadness, reports on the on-going taxi violence that is taking place in the Western Cape, particularly in the Cape Town Metropolitan area. The Commission is concerned and appeals for tolerance in the midst of the escalating violence between the two Taxi Associations (CODETA and CATA) which also directly impacts on the safety, livelihood and lives of communities, commuters and the general public. Such conduct is extremely concerning, particularly given that it is impacting communities that already face great hardship amidst the current restrictions related to the COVID 19 pandemic, and resultant economic downturn. The Commission therefore strongly urges all parties to continue with engagements aimed at finding common ground and a peaceful resolution to the dispute.
The Commission, as mandated by the Constitution to promote the protection, development and attainment of human rights, calls on all the role players in the transport industry to engage and assist in finding solutions to the problem of the on-going violence in the Cape Metro. The suspension/halting of the taxi services and violence that has affected bus services running within these areas, has led to serious transport challenges for many commuters, which includes workers who rely on public transport to commute to and from work on a daily basis, and who are now not able get to their places of employment on time or at all.
Given the impact of the violence, as well as the suspension and limitation on public transport, the Commission wishes to appeal to the business sector and employers in particular, to understand and exercise tolerance with the plight their employees face.
The Commission will continue to engage with the provincial government and other stakeholders in order to be part of a solution-based approach to prevent violence in the taxi industry and promote safe and efficient public transport in South Africa
Ends
Issued by the South African Human Rights Commission
Gushwell Brooks – Communications Co-ordinator Tel: 082 645 8573 This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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The Human Rights Commission is the national institution established to support constitutional democracy. It is committed to promote respect for, observance of and protection of human rights for everyone without fear or favour.
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