Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku has published a notice of intent to extend extraordinary measures of closing mini-bus taxi routes and lanes for another 30 days, defying earlier attempts by taxi unions to halt the controversial restrictions through the courts.
The affected taxi associations, CATA and CODETA, now have just 24 hours to respond to the minister’s latest notice, which comes as negotiations between the rival groups show signs of progress after weeks of violent clashes that rocked the province’s public transport network.
The extension follows a failed legal challenge by taxi unions who sought to overturn the emergency measures through the courts. Despite their legal efforts, the restrictions have remained in place, with Minister Sileku now moving to formalize their continuation.
As previously reported by NovaNews, the taxi industry dispute has been marked by escalating violence and route disputes between the two major associations, prompting the provincial government to take the unprecedented step of closing affected routes entirely.
The affected routes that have been at the center of the controversy are several key connections between Khayelitsha, Somerset West, and surrounding areas. The routes span busy corridors such as the 611 Khayelitsha-Somerset West line, the M18 Mfuleni-Somerset West route, and various services connecting communities to major shopping centers including Somerset Mall and Waterstone Mall.
Sileku defended the decision, pointing to the measurable impact of the restrictions over the past 29 days.
“We have seen no further acts of violence or disruptions since these measures were first implemented,” the minister said in a statement. “This period has created the necessary space for both associations to engage constructively in pursuit of lasting peace.”
The minister emphasized that the extraordinary measures have been “effective in restoring peace on the affected routes, safeguarding lives” during what has been one of the most challenging periods for the province’s taxi industry in recent years.
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Despite the progress in talks, Sileku struck a cautious tone about the need for continued vigilance.
“The decision to file a notice of intent extending the extraordinary measures is a proactive and precautionary step while dialogue continues,” he explained.
The minister noted that recent engagements between CATA and CODETA have shown “intent and commitment toward reaching a sustainable and peaceful resolution,” offering hope that a permanent solution may be within reach.
With the 24-hour comment period now ticking for both associations, Sileku has called for accelerated negotiations.
“We will continue to closely monitor the situation and urge both associations to intensify their efforts to reach an agreement,” he said. “Our collective aim remains to protect lives, promote safety, and stability in the public transport sector.”
The affected routes have been a flashpoint in the ongoing dispute between the two taxi associations, with the violence having disrupted thousands of daily commuters across the Western Cape.
The minister’s office has indicated that any final decision on the extension will take into account responses from both CATA and CODETA during the comment period, though the notice of intent suggests the government remains committed to maintaining the restrictions until a lasting peace agreement is secured.
