Nonstikelelo Mthabela

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), has announced that as from Monday the 29^th June taxis will operate on full capacity.

The decision comes after a series of cancellations and postponements of meetings between taxi officials and the minister of transport, Fikile Mbalula.

The council’s decision goes against COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines which instructed taxis to only load 70% capacity during level 3 lockdown.

Mbongeni Manana, a taxi owner said they have run out patience and have given the minister multiple chances to redeem himself and come up with a solid plan that is reasonable. Manana added that he has to pay a monthly instalment for his taxi and has a family to feed.

Santaco’s President, Phillip Taaibosch said that they were also demanding that all taxis that were impounded at the start of the lockdown be released.

The taxi industry said the relief fund promised by government is not sufficient as they have to share with e-hailing taxis.

Transport minister, Fikile Mbalula, has appealed to the leadership structures of the industry to reconsider their decision to incite lawlessness and place their drivers and passengers on a collision course with law enforcement authorities

Santaco has threatened the law enforcement and government of a national shutdown if their taxis are impounded for loading full capacity.