Inkatha Freedom Party Youth Brigade – KwaZulu-Natal
The Inkatha Freedom Party Youth Brigade (IFPYB) in KwaZulu-Natal expresses its deep concern over the ongoing long-distance taxi strike that has brought the province to a standstill since it began on Friday, 29 November 2024.
Now entering its fifth day, this strike has caused severe disruptions, leaving commuters stranded and creating a ripple effect that is crippling the provincial economy. Of particular concern is the plight of tertiary students, many of whom are stranded in their institutions far from home. These young people, already vulnerable, face significant safety risks as they are unable to travel to their families at this critical time of the year.
The taxi industry, which has accused the Department of Transport of withholding operating permits and unjustly impounding vehicles, must engage constructively with the provincial government to address these grievances. Conversely, the department must offer clarity and transparency on its actions to resolve this impasse swiftly.
We, therefore, call on KZN Premier Honourable Thamsanqa Ntuli to urgently intervene and facilitate an amicable resolution to this strike. The strike, if left unchecked, threatens to deepen economic instability, deter potential investors, and tarnish the province’s reputation as a global reliable hub of commerce and tourism, particularly during the December festive season
Premier Ntuli has demonstrated swift and decisive leadership in tackling other pressing issues in the province, such as the spaza shop crisis. We urge him to apply the same vigour and determination to this matter to ensure the restoration of stability in KwaZulu-Natal.
This is not the time for political brinkmanship or delays. With thousands of commuters, workers, and students bearing the brunt of this standstill, the provincial government must prioritize their needs and urgently broker a resolution to the strike.
Contact:
Mncedisi Maphisa
Chairperson IFPYB Kzn, MPL
Contact: 076-045 8005
