The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) in the Western Cape wishes to express its profound concern and disappointment regarding the recent decision by the Provincial MEC of Mobility, Mr. Isaac Sileku, to close several key minibus taxi routes serving the Mfuleni, Khayelitsha, Nomzamo, Lwandle and Somerset West corridor for 30 days, starting Wednesday, 17 September.
This abrupt decision, taken without adequate consultation or a clear, alternative plan, will have a severe and negative impact on thousands of commuters and the working class across the province. The minibus taxi industry is the lifeblood of public transport in the Western Cape, and any disruption to its routes directly undermines the ability of workers to get to their jobs, students to reach their schools, and citizens to access essential services.
Our primary concern is that the MEC does not have a viable, sustainable plan to mitigate the immense inconvenience and potential economic hardship this closure will inflict on commuters. The working class, who are already burdened by the high cost of living, cannot afford increased transport costs, longer travel times, or a complete loss of access to reliable transport.
COSATU Western Cape is therefore calling on MEC Sileku to:
1. Immediately review this ill-considered decision.
2. Convene an urgent meeting with all relevant stakeholders, including COSATU, representatives from the minibus taxi industry, commuter forums, and Labour Unions.
3. Present a comprehensive and practical plan that addresses the concerns of commuters and ensures affordable, reliable, and safe alternative transport arrangements are in place before any such closures are implemented.
We believe that through constructive and genuine engagement, a solution can be found that prioritises the needs of the people. Public transport policy must be developed with the people, not imposed upon them.
COSATU remains committed to defending the rights of workers and the working class and will not stand by while decisions are made that jeopardize their livelihoods and well-being.
Issued by COSATU Western Cape
Malvern De Bruyn (Provincial Secretary) 060 977 9027
Motlatsi Tsubane (Provincial Chairperson) 074 482 6180
