Monday, 24 February 2025.

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) welcomes the ruling of the Western Cape High Court, which has rightfully held the Passenger Rail Agency of South Africa (Prasa) liable for damages after a commuter suffered injuries during a stampede caused by a robbery on one of its trains. The court’s decision to compel Prasa to pay damages to Sindisiwe Patience Mkhize, who suffered a broken in 2018, highlights Prasa’s failure to uphold its duty of care to the public.

This judgment is a long-overdue step in holding Prasa accountable for its reckless disregard for the safety of the millions of working-class South Africans who rely on trains as their primary mode of transport. Mkhize’s case is not an isolated incident but a symptom of Prasa’s continued failure to provide safe and reliable transportation. Criminals are attacking and robbing passengers with impunity, and Prasa’s failure to deploy sufficient security, especially on high-risk lines like the northern line, has allowed this to continue.

The judge rightfully pointed out that had Prasa deployed guards and visible protection services, criminals would have been deterred, and the chaos that led to Mkhize’s injuries would not have occurred. It is disgraceful that instead of taking responsibility, Prasa denied the incident ever happened and sought to blame the victim, suggesting she should have remained seated while others ran in fear. Such an argument, as the judge noted, is inhumane and reveals the sheer arrogance and lack of accountability within Prasa’s leadership.

The EFF calls on Prasa to urgently address the ongoing security and safety concerns on its rail network. The failure to invest in security personnel, functional infrastructure, and proper commuter safety measures is a direct attack on the working class, who already face enormous hardships just to reach their places of employment. The negligence of Prasa is a form of economic sabotage that further entrenches poverty by making it even more difficult for workers to earn a living. The safety of passengers is essential for restoring confidence in the railway system and reviving the sector.

This ruling must serve as a warning to all state-owned entities and government departments that disregard for the lives and dignity of the people will not go unpunished. The EFF will continue to fight for a transport system that is safe, efficient, and accessible to all, free from crime and mismanagement.

ISSUED BY THE ECONOMIC FREEDOM FIGHTERS

Leigh-Ann Mathys (National Spokesperson) 082 304 7572

Thato Lebyane (Media Enquiries) 078 304 7572