Update

GEORGE NEWS - In response to the taxi industry's protest action that led to a tense standoff in the CBD between the taxi industry and the local and provincial traffic departments and the police in the last two weeks, the George Municipality has authorised the establishment of a committee to address the situation.

The impasse that started on Monday 13 August resulted in the impounding of six taxis and the arrest of 47 people on Thursday 16 August.

Bazil Petrus, chairperson of Council's Section 79 committee that handles transport matters, said that a letter was sent to Uncedo, requesting the names of up to 10 Uncedo members to serve on the committee. "The letter dated Thursday 23 August was within the seven-day period that was agreed upon during the height of the protest."

Uncedo chairperson Welele Mbudede confirmed that Uncedo has received a letter from Council requesting names to serve on the committee.

Mbudede said they handed in five names on Monday 27 August and now they are waiting for the municipality to convene a meeting. He said that the agreement made on Thursday 16 August to a seven-day period was to get answers to the transport-related issues that are tormenting their industry. 

The letter confirms the establishment of a working committee to tackle the taxi impasse in George.

"Now all we have is a letter."

Municipal spokesperson Chantel Edwards-Klose said yesterday, Wednesday 29 August, "The George Municipality has to date not received any response on correspondence issued."

Uncedo chairperson Welele Mbudede says after the seven-day period he only has a letter. Photo: Zolani  Sinxo