Tuesday, 04 February 2024.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) strongly condemns the brutal and senseless killing of two Rea Vaya bus drivers in separate incidents in Mapetla and Protea Glen, Soweto. These tragic deaths, which occurred last night, represent an unacceptable escalation of violence and are a direct attack on the safety of public transport workers who serve our communities. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.

The EFF stands firm in our commitment to ensuring the safety of all South Africans, particularly those who work tirelessly to provide essential services such as public transport. It is deeply concerning that, despite the good intentions behind the introduction of Rea Vaya’s feeder routes – designed to improve accessibility and provide affordable, convenient transport for Soweto residents – tensions within the transport industry have escalated to violence.

The decision to establish 45-seater feeder buses to enhance connectivity and support the daily movement of commuters was a much-needed initiative to better serve the people of Soweto. These routes, which include critical corridors such as Naledi to Thokoza Park and Protea Glen to Thokoza Park, are integral to the functioning of the local economy and the daily lives of working-class South Africans. However, the EFF recognises that certain sectors within the transport industry have voiced their concerns regarding the new routes, which previously led to disruptions and the suspension of Rea Vaya services in November 2024.The routes were subsequently restored.

While the EFF respects the right of transport stakeholders to express their concerns, we unequivocally reject any form of violence as a means of resolving disputes. The recent killings of these two drivers are a tragic reflection of the deepening tensions and an escalation that must be addressed urgently.

This violent trend is not confined to Gauteng alone. It is part of a disturbing pattern of attacks against public transport workers across the country. Just last week, 50 PUTCO buses were burned at the Nkangala Depot in Mpumalanga, and yesterday, 9 buses were set alight in Moretele in the North West. These coordinated acts of violence against public transport infrastructure signal a clear and deliberate effort to undermine the transport sector and sow chaos in communities that rely on these essential services.

We call on the MEC of Gautrans to immediately intervene and address the clearly brewing tensions within the transport sector in Gauteng, while the Minister of Transport needs to conduct investigations on a national level. The situation cannot be allowed to deteriorate further, and it is critical that both government and stakeholders work together to find peaceful, constructive solutions that prioritise the safety and well-being of transport workers and commuters alike.

The suspension of Rea Vaya services has already caused significant disruption to thousands of commuters who rely on this vital public transport system to travel to work, school, and other essential destinations. The EFF demands the restoration of services and the establishment of a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, ensuring that such violence never occurs again.

We stand united with the families of the fallen drivers and pledge our  support for the safety and rights of all workers within the public transport sector. We call on all parties involved to work towards de-escalation, dialogue, and the protection of human life; and we also call on those responsible for the killings to face the full might of the law.

ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Leigh-Ann Mathys (National Spokesperson) 082 304 7572

Thato Lebyane (Media Enquiries) 078 304 7572