Taxi Strike in Cape Town Prompts Legal Action Amid Deadly Violence.
The premier of South Africa’s Western Cape province is seeking legal action to put an end to a taxi strike that has paralyzed services in Cape Town and led to fatal incidents.
Since the strike commenced last week, at least three people have lost their lives, according to AFP news agency, with police linking the deaths to the ongoing industrial action.
The strike has resulted in blockaded roads in Cape Town, causing disruptions, including access to the city’s airport.
The cause of the strike was a new city by-law that grants authorities the power to seize vehicles for offenses like overloading, which was implemented recently. The strike was called by the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco), as reported by AFP.
The situation escalated as municipal buses were set on fire, and government property became targets of attacks, as noted by South African radio station Jacaranda FM.
Premier Alan Winde attempted to hold a meeting with Santaco to resolve the issue, but no progress was made.
“I am angry that as a result of the strike, residents have been unable to get home to their families or to work, school, shops, clinics, and other critical sites,” expressed Mr. Winde, according to Jacaranda FM.
While Santaco has denounced the violence, they also accused the authorities of impounding vehicles unjustifiably, as reported by News24. The organization expressed sorrow and regret over the destruction of property and loss of life during the strike.
