…Researched and contributed by Solomon Thomas.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has expressed its support for Intercape, a long-distance bus operator, in its decision to take legal action against the Minister of Police for failing to implement a safety plan to prevent violent bus attacks.
This comes after Intercape experienced several attacks on its buses and drivers in the Eastern Cape, resulting in significant financial losses and leaving many customers stranded.
According to recent reports, there have been 14 attacks on buses in recent weeks.
Blaming the ANC-led government for the attacks, Chris Hunsinger, the DA Shadow Minister, stated that the government’s lack of concern about crime and its impact on the transportation industry is evident.
He criticized the police and transportation minister for failing to develop a safety plan to prevent attacks on buses despite numerous requests and legal actions.
Hunsinger went on to say that the long-haul operators and their customers have been abandoned by the government, posing a serious risk to investor confidence.
Intercape Business Taking a Huge Knock
The attacks on Intercape’s buses have resulted in millions of rands in losses, and many customers have been left stranded.
Despite the court directing the MEC for transport in the Eastern Cape, the former minister of transport, and the Eastern Cape Transport and Community Safety MEC 20 days to develop a strategy to stop the attacks, no action has been taken.
Party Demands Action from New Minister of Transport
Hunsinger finds it absurd that a business or citizen has to go to such drastic measures to secure the protection and intervention of the minister of police.
He further stated that organized crime is allowed to flourish due to the police’s ineptitude and refusal to safeguard long-distance bus companies.
Given that thousands of South Africans depend on long-distance travel, Hunsinger demanded that the incoming Minister of Transport, Sindisiwe Chikunga, and the Minister of Police immediately implement the safety plan to prevent further attacks on buses.
Commentary:
The safety of public transportation is essential for the well-being of citizens and the economy.
The attacks on Intercape’s buses demonstrate the need for the government to take action to ensure the safety of citizens and businesses.
The DA’s call for urgent discussion on this issue is necessary to address the ongoing attacks on long-distance bus operators.
It is crucial for the government to work towards developing a safety plan to protect citizens and businesses from violent attacks.
The government’s failure to act could result in long-term negative consequences for the transportation industry and the economy.