National Taxi Alliance gives government ultimatum as strike looms over high costs of fuel

The National Taxi Alliance (NTA) roped in to send a stern warning to the government should on-going negotiations reach a deadlock.

The alliance threatened the ANC-led government with a nationwide shutdown due to the high fuel prices.

NTA spokesperson, Theo Malele said they have sent their demands to the government to try and find a solution.

“We have every intention to negotiate with government in good faith. However, should government fail to respond to our demands, we will be left with no other option but to call for a shutdown in conjunction with like-minded businesses and civil society,” Theo said.

Over the past week, there have been a series of threats from civil organisations and political parties that nationwide shutdown might be on cards, if the government doesn’t come with a solution to ease high costs.

South Africa recorded-high petrol prices in June, where citizens were told to tighten their belts as the petrol price per litre increased to R2,43 , while diesel per litre saw an increase of R1,10.

The government was under huge pressure to extend the levy reduction – as the petrol price would have increased by close to R4/litre.

Santaco and the National Taxi Alliance were believed to be organising a protest on Friday, against the high fuel prices, however, Santaco distanced itself from claims of lobbying the strike.

“Santaco has never lobbied any organisation for a national shutdown, and there is no plan to participate in any shutdown.

“As the transportation sector, the organization hold the strongest view that there’s an urgent intervention needed from Government due to the fuel hikes,” Santaco said.