Political administrations failing motorists hopelessly

22 December 2015  

Congress of the People is saddened at the injuries sustained by road accident victims and the loss of life that is once again piling up on our roads without abatement.

Both the ANC government as well as the DA government are overlooking the most obvious solution: use responsible motorists to know what irresponsible motorists are doing moment by moment. Almost every motorist has a mobile phone and every responsible motorist therefore could theoretically give inputs on dangerous and reckless driving. All that is needed is a number to call, in each vicinity, to alert traffic authorities. Sign boards  along the road should provide the necessary contact details.

Responsible drivers have a crucial agency role in halting injury and death on our roads. Those who comply with the law and drive defensively do not wish to be exposed to life threatening danger from those who transgress the law. COPE submitted a written question to the Minister of Transport asking whether government would consider implementing measures to involve motorists in making roads safer for everyone, but the Minister has done nothing to take up the suggestion. The injuries, loss of life and financial cost to the nation are there for everyone to behold and grieve about. It’s a December bloodbath again.

COPE has also continued to plead for a rethink on road freightage. The sharing of congested roads between heavy vehicles and passenger vehicles will continue to exact a heavy toll. With climate change now wreaking havoc, it is imperative that rail transport should once again come into its own. Government should enable 5!% of rail transport to be acquired by the private sector. This will inject capital and expertise into rail transport and make rail extremely attractive for freight and passengers as well. The longer the government delays in this respect, the more injuries and fatalities will continue to occur on our roads. 

COPE believed that the death of Minister Collins Chabane would have impelled serious government action in his memory. Unfortunately, he is forgotten. It is business as usual and therefore we will hundreds of people will experience injury or die on our roads. 

COPE urges all who will be on the road over the festive season to become extra defensive and to take utmost care. As for the national government as well as each provincial government, every accident on the road is an indictment.   

Issued by Dennis Bloem, Spokesperson, COPE, 22 December 2015