The minibus taxi strike in Cape Town, triggered by a labor dispute about new vehicle regulation measures, officially ended on Thursday after erupting into violent protests that claimed the lives of five people. The protesting taxi drivers were opposing a new traffic law stipulating that vehicles in violation of certain criteria would be impounded. This included unlicensed vehicles and drivers, passengers not wearing seatbelts, or vehicles not being deemed roadworthy.
In response to this law, the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) announced a one-week strike commencing on August 3. This action escalated into violent protests in certain areas. SANTACO contended that the new law disproportionately targeted taxi drivers, resulting in multiple erroneous impoundments. However, Cape Town city officials maintained that the impounded taxis were in violation of the National Land Transport Act, not the new municipal law.
The protests transformed into violent confrontations in parts of Cape Town, with protesters throwing stones and setting fire to buildings. SANTACO publicly distanced itself from these acts, denouncing the violence and calling for peace. City officials, including Councillor Rob Quintas, likewise condemned the violence due to its severe impact on public transit and city services.
The strike concluded after SANTACO announced that an agreement was reached with the government to release the unlawfully impounded vehicles within the next two weeks. The end of the strike was confirmed by the Mayor of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis. Refer here for more information.