ANC slams 'irresponsible' taxi association

The African National Congress (ANC) on Thursday criticised Soweto Taxi Services for allegedly intimidating taxi owners who support the bus rapid transit (BRT) system.

The ruling party said the actions of the association, which was reported to have been annulling the membership of taxi owners who supported BRT, contravened their rights.

“We call on the taxi organisation to respect the rights of other taxi owners to join the BRT,” the ANC said in a statement.

“The action by the taxi organisation to remove stickers [on the owners’ taxis] is not only irresponsible, but an act of intimidation and chastising those who are exercising their rights to join the BRT.”

The removal of stickers on the taxis meant the minibuses no longer had permission from the association to operate.

The party said the association’s actions were bordering on uncompetitive behaviour.

“It is not a sin to support the BRT, but [it] is the right thing to do because it brings many benefits in the transport industry.”

The party called on the taxi organisation “to refrain from the abominable act of intimidation”, adding that the Constitution allows individuals freedom of choice.

The ANC encouraged law enforcement agencies to protect taxi drivers and owners as the taxi association’s behaviour might lead to conflict.

“The security agencies should be all out to prevent any sort of intimidation associated with BRT, especially by the taxi industry,” the party said.—Sapa