COSATU Western Cape media statement on the SANTACO strike

4 August 2023

The Congress of South African Trade Unions(COSATU) in the Western Cape notes recent developments affecting the Taxi Industry in Cape Town and the statement of SANTACO Western Cape resolving that no taxis will be operating with immediate effect across the Western Cape until the 09 August 2023. SANTACO is claiming that this action is in protest at the impounding of taxi vehicles by the City of Cape Town.

The Federation appeals to all parties to engage urgently to resolve the impasse within the parameters of the law. We are calling for peace and that all parties must refrain from any violence. Traffic officers, taxi drivers and commuters are all workers and no blood should be shed by anyone. All workers simply want to earn their salaries so they can take care of their families. These matters can and must be resolved by the parties at the negotiating table. Workers should not be made the casualties of this impasse.

The Taxi Industry should be formalized as a matter of urgently and we support this critical industry which is the backbone of our public transport system. Taxi drivers are workers and their rights to earn a living wage and to enjoy their labour rights must be respected. There is an urgent need to have a discussion on how we can formalize and support this critical industry.

The rule of law must be respected and upheld by all parties because commuters and workers depend upon the taxi industry and must be allowed to go to work, schools, and shops safely.

COSATU will continue to engage the City, Police and the Taxi Industry to support an urgent and peaceful resolution this matter.

Issued by Malvern De Bruyn, Provincial Secretary, COSATU, 4 August 2023