ActionSA strongly condemns the ongoing acts of violence within South Africa’s taxi industry, particularly among rival taxi associations. These violent confrontations continue to claim lives, disrupt essential transport services, and endanger the safety of millions of commuters who rely daily on taxis as their primary mode of transport.
We are deeply alarmed by the report of a fatal shooting today in the Alexandra township, involving ARMSTA Taxi Association Chairman. This latest killing is a tragic reminder of how deadly territorial disputes in the industry have become—and how urgently this cycle of violence must stop.
Such violence not only causes widespread fear and instability but also undermines ongoing efforts to build a safe, affordable, and reliable public transport system that supports economic activity and connects our communities. ActionSA believes that South Africa cannot achieve inclusive growth while lawlessness continues to threaten one of the country’s most important transport sectors.
Taxi operators play an indispensable role in the daily lives of millions of South Africans. The taxi industry forms the backbone of public transport, particularly in working-class communities where other modes of transport remain limited. With this important role comes a moral and civic duty to operate responsibly, ethically, and within the bounds of the law.
ActionSA acknowledges the complex challenges facing the taxi industry, including competition for routes, economic pressures, and governance weaknesses within associations. However, we firmly believe that violence cannot and must not be seen as a means to resolve these issues. Instead, the focus must shift toward effective mediation, collaboration with transport authorities, and the strengthening of conflict-resolution mechanisms.
To that end, ActionSA calls on all taxi associations and their leadership to:
- Commit to peaceful engagement and structured mediation to resolve disputes;
- Cooperate fully with law enforcement in the investigation of acts of violence and the prosecution of perpetrators;
- Prioritise the safety and well-being of commuters and taxi operators alike;
- Work closely with government to develop a modern, transparent, and accountable regulatory framework for the industry.
ActionSA reaffirms its commitment to working with government, civil society, and the private sector to promote safety, accountability, and long-term stability in the taxi industry. The party will continue advocating for reforms that ensure fair competition, improved regulation, and the protection of commuters who depend on taxis every day.
Violence has no place in Joburg’s public transport sector. It is time to restore order, safety, and dignity to an industry that millions depend on.
ActionSA Joburg Condemns Ongoing Taxi Violence Amongst Taxi Associations
ActionSA strongly condemns the ongoing acts of violence within South Africa’s taxi industry, particularly among rival taxi associations. These violent confrontations continue to claim lives, disrupt essential transport services, and endanger the safety of millions of commuters who rely daily on taxis as their primary mode of transport.
We are deeply alarmed by the report of a fatal shooting today in the Alexandra township, involving ARMSTA Taxi Association Chairman. This latest killing is a tragic reminder of how deadly territorial disputes in the industry have become—and how urgently this cycle of violence must stop.
Such violence not only causes widespread fear and instability but also undermines ongoing efforts to build a safe, affordable, and reliable public transport system that supports economic activity and connects our communities. ActionSA believes that South Africa cannot achieve inclusive growth while lawlessness continues to threaten one of the country’s most important transport sectors.
Taxi operators play an indispensable role in the daily lives of millions of South Africans. The taxi industry forms the backbone of public transport, particularly in working-class communities where other modes of transport remain limited. With this important role comes a moral and civic duty to operate responsibly, ethically, and within the bounds of the law.
ActionSA acknowledges the complex challenges facing the taxi industry, including competition for routes, economic pressures, and governance weaknesses within associations. However, we firmly believe that violence cannot and must not be seen as a means to resolve these issues. Instead, the focus must shift toward effective mediation, collaboration with transport authorities, and the strengthening of conflict-resolution mechanisms.
To that end, ActionSA calls on all taxi associations and their leadership to:
ActionSA reaffirms its commitment to working with government, civil society, and the private sector to promote safety, accountability, and long-term stability in the taxi industry. The party will continue advocating for reforms that ensure fair competition, improved regulation, and the protection of commuters who depend on taxis every day.
Violence has no place in Joburg’s public transport sector. It is time to restore order, safety, and dignity to an industry that millions depend on.