Drivers of e-hailing services, including Bolt and Uber, have threatened to cancel their services on August 8 unless management increases their rate.
Uber and Bolt are being accused by the drivers of undermining them and putting commission first. The drivers also went on a countrywide strike in March of this year, asking for the government to step in. The lack of regulation in the industry, which they claimed allows for their exploitation by the businesses, was at the forefront of their grievances.
Henry Mathebula, the chairperson of the E-hailing Partners Council, stated in an interview with Newzroom Afrika that the drivers’ march to the Uber offices in Johannesburg earlier this year was motivated by two pressing problems (even if they have many).
According to Mathebula, prices for gasoline have climbed often since January of this year, but not for travel costs, and as a result, the company is making a loss.
“What is R2 in this economic climate and conditions we are working under? They are undermining the rights of the drivers.
“We are saying enough is enough, we can’t go back to the road operating on a loss. We are not really hoping for any change or a price increase because these e-hailing companies are arrogant,” he continued.
Mathebula also discussed the Uber leaks, which showed how Uber harmed drivers’ safety by establishing unfavorable working circumstances.
In conclusion, Mathebula emphasized that they will not be working on August 8 and will instead remain at home until they have determined what has to be done to enable industry change.