Issued by: Gauteng Provincial Government
Gauteng Premier Mbhazima Shilowa has noted with concern and abomination today's unlawful action by some minibus taxi drivers in several places in the province.
The Premier condemns in the strongest terms all acts of intimidation, damage to property and contravention of traffic regulations committed by taxi drivers engaged in the protest action against the re-capitalisation of the minibus taxi industry.
The Premier fully supports the measures taken by MEC for Transport and Public Works Khabisi Mosunkutu, in terms of the Gauteng Mininbus Taxi-type Services Act, to bring the situation to normality.
The Premier commends members of the SAPS and the SANDF for acting swiftly and determinedly to enforce the law and protect property and lives from the anarchic action by minibus taxi drivers.
The Premier has noted that some of the minibus taxi drivers refused to be coerced by the National Taxi Drivers Organisation to participate in unlawful actions. He urges them to desist from engaging in any unlawful action.
The Premier warns members of the National Taxi Organisation that any further acts of intimidation, contravention of the traffic regulations, damage to peoples property and endangering peoples lives will be met with the full might of the law.
Issued by Thabo Masebe Spokesperson for the Premier Gauteng Provincial Government Tel: 082 551 4945
27 January 2000