Taxi leaders have committed to working together to ensure that
there are no more killings in the province.
This comes after the signing of the long-awaited peace agreement to end taxi industry-related violence by taxi leaders representing different taxi structures and factions at an event at the East London International Conference Centre on Wednesday, 17 April.
Santaco provincial leader Zola Yolelo said the signing of the peace agreement is as result of an ongoing behind the scenes efforts to bring stability and peace in the taxi industry.
“We have always been opposed to any form of taxi related violence. A lot of work has been done behind the scenes with taxi associations leading to the signing of the peace agreement. But now associations are working on an action plan to improve working relations amongst each other,” Yolelo said.
Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha praised the leadership of the taxi industry for the commitment shown to end taxi violence and hostilities.
“We have worked together with the government up to this point of signing the peace agreement. I appreciate the role played by Mr Gaehler and Mr Hintsa in working together with me to facilitate a resolution to the conflict,” Nqatha said.
The president of the Border Taxi Alliance, Songezo Mpanda, said his organization participation in the peace process is a sign of commitment towards ensuring peace.
“We are going to work according to the peace agreement, so that there are no killings, and no fighting and people can run their businesses in harmony,” Mpanda said.
Fezile Mtshengele, Uncedo leader said: “There will be no more blood spilt. We are working together, and we want peace in this industry.”
