The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Transport, Ms Mina Lesoma, has condemned the actions of Cape Town Metro police officers who on Tuesday allegedly manhandled harmless and unarmed taxi drivers in Cape Town. A video of the assault was shared on social media platforms.

Ms Lesoma said the video appears genuine, although its authenticity has yet to be established. “This is an unfortunate incident and those responsible for these actions should be held to account in the same way SAPS assigned to the Deputy President are,” she said.

“There is enforcement of law but the behaviour in the video borders on disrespect and abuse of positions. Law enforcement should avoid a situation where they present to the public opinion as unaccountable rogues and as opponents of the taxi industry.”

Ms Lesoma said all effort should be geared towards professionalising the taxi service. “Sadly, what appears on the video goes against all what government stands for, and the vision it has for the taxi industry. The democratic government has always voiced its support for the industry and the need to support the industry comprehensively. Truth is South Africa works because the industry is working and affordable,” added Ms Lesoma.

She said law enforcement in the City of Cape Town need not be reminded that they are not the law but work for the law. She said the committee calls for a negotiated resolution of challenges, as disruption and anarchy are unacceptable and detrimental to the development of the taxi industry.

ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORT, MS MINA LESOMA.

For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Social Development, please contact:

Name: Sibongile Maputi

Parliamentary Communication Services

Cell: 081 052 6060

E-mail: [email protected]

Source: Parliament of South Africa