Note to Editors: Please note Riona Gokool, MPL sound bite in English
The Democratic Alliance (DA) notes with concern a written parliamentary reply (view here) by KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) Transport MEC, Siboniso Duma, regarding ongoing tensions between the province’s minibus taxi industry and the e-hailing and private transport sector.
The reply – in response to questions by the DA around steps being taken to protect the latter – indicates a lack of strict, proactive measures by KZN’s Department of Transport (DoT).
While the DA acknowledges the establishment of task teams and SAPS warnings to taxi associations against the unlawful stopping of such vehicles, these measures fall short of addressing the urgency and severity of intimidation, harassment and extortion currently being faced.
It is also deeply concerning that law enforcement responses remain largely reactive. A warning without consistent enforcement will not deter criminality. In this regard, the DA calls for visible, sustained policing interventions, including dedicated joint operations between SAPS and Metro Police to protect e-hailing drivers and private transport operators from unlawful interference.
MEC Duma’s assertion that the e-hailing sector is currently “operating illegally” also oversimplifies a complex regulatory failure.
Delays in licencing through the National Public Transport Regulator have created uncertainty, leaving drivers vulnerable. KZN’s Department of Transport (DoT) must now take the initiative and push for streamlining and expediting of the licensing process – rather than allowing this vacuum to fuel conflict.
The absence of clearly defined mediation structures between the taxi industry and e-hailing services further reflects a missed opportunity for proactive governance by the DoT. The DA urges MEC Duma to ensure the establishment of formal, transparent dispute resolution platforms that include all stakeholders, backed by enforceable agreements.
Learner transport by private operators – relied on by many parents – is also in jeopardy as the current regulatory framework risks excluding such operators due to administrative barriers. The DA proposes a simplified, accessible registration process for small-scale operators to ensure both compliance and continued access to safe, affordable transport for learners.
A balanced, legislation-based approach is essential. This includes enforcing the rule of law without fear or favour, enabling fair competition through efficient regulation, and protecting the rights and safety of all road users.
KZN’s people deserve a transport system that is safe, reliable, and free from intimidation. The DA, as a responsible partner within the Government of Provincial Unity (GPU), will continue to hold MEC Duma and his department accountable to this standard.