Alarming escalation of violence at QwaQwa taxi strike

The taxi strike in QwaQwa in the Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality in South Africa, has now entered its fourth day… with an alarking escalation in violence. Tragically, two lives have already been lost, and several others have been injured.

The strike has also brought the local economy to a grinding halt.

“While we respect everyone’s right to protest, the escalating violence associated with this strike is both worrying and disturbing,” says Moshe Lefuma, DA Constituency Chairperson Maluti-a-Phofung Local Municipality. The Democratic Alliance has called for an urgent intervention to end the prolonged taxi strike.

“QwaQwa already faces a staggering unemployment rate of over 60%, predominantly impacting the youth. The violent clashes between rival taxi associations have resulted in a gruesome display that not only endangers their lives but also jeopardizes the safety of innocent individuals conducting their daily activities in Setsing,” Lefuma said in a statement on Saturday.

”The closure of all stores in Setsing has further crippled the already fragile local economy. This strike has only exacerbated the dire economic situation in QwaQwa.”

The DA is urgently calling on government authorities, particularly the Free State Department of Roads and Transport and the South African Police Service, to intervene in this chaotic situation.

“We urge them to work together with the taxi associations to find a peaceful resolution. The majority of QwaQwa’s population relies on taxis for their everyday activities, including commuting to work, shopping, and visiting loved ones. Finding a swift solution is paramount to restoring normalcy to people’s lives and revitalizing the struggling local economy. We extend our hand to assist in mediating talks between the taxi associations if needed.

“As access to essential goods, medicines, and family connections dwindles, the desperation among the people of QwaQwa grows. It is crucial that we prioritize their well-being and restore their livelihoods as soon as possible,” said the DA.