The taxi industry in South Africa has become a dominant force in the country's society, with far-reaching influence over various aspects of life. According to testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, the industry's power is largely exercised through its links to the police. Businessman and Mpumalanga taxi boss Joe 'Ferrari' Sibanyoni's testimony revealed a complex web of relationships between the industry and law enforcement officials. Sibanyoni's claims of not being linked to the killings that plague the industry, despite references to "hits" and "izinkabi" in his WhatsApps, have raised questions about the industry's involvement in violent activities.
The taxi industry's influence over the police is not surprising, given the daily interactions between law enforcement officials and taxi operators. Many people have complained that police officers often own taxis or have a share in them, which can explain why the industry is able to behave with relative impunity. This has led to ordinary people being abused by the industry in various ways, including violent threats and extortion. The industry's power has also led to cases where representatives have defended their "right" to stop drivers from giving people lifts.
The taxi industry's rise to power can be attributed to the limited avenues for self-advancement for black people in townships. The industry provided an opportunity for entrepreneurship and capital accumulation, which led to links with the police and other influential figures. As the industry grew, so did its influence, with some operators diversifying into other services that may interface with criminal elements. The line between "criminal" and "taxi boss" can become blurred, making it challenging to distinguish between legitimate business activities and illicit operations.
The industry's influence extends beyond the police and into the judiciary. The case of Sibanyoni, who was allowed to leave court after facing extortion charges, raised questions about the influence of the industry over the judiciary. The behavior of Kwaggafontein chief magistrate Tuletu Tonjeni, who struck the case from the roll after the prosecutor failed to appear, was deemed inappropriate and led to her investigation and subsequent retirement.
The taxi industry's power is also evident in its ability to manage and control communities. During the violence sparked by the jailing of former President Jacob Zuma in 2021, the industry played a significant role in stopping the violence in some areas. Its ability to organize patrols, manage weapons, and command and control operations across communities demonstrated its influence and authority.
A recent case involving the bus company Intercape highlights the industry's influence. The company's attempts to operate in the Eastern Cape were met with resistance from the local taxi industry, which has been attacking its buses for years. The court ruling in favor of Intercape was seen as an attempt by the taxi industry to make the company more vulnerable.
The Public Service Commission chairperson, Professor Somadoda Fikeni, has emphasized the need to understand the "political economy of instability" in South Africa. His testimony at the Madlanga Commission highlighted the complex relationships between the taxi industry, the police, and other influential figures. The industry's influence is a reminder of the need for greater accountability and oversight to prevent the abuse of power and ensure the rule of law.
Key points
- The taxi industry's influence in South Africa extends beyond transportation, with significant sway over the police, politics, and the judiciary.
- The industry's power is largely exercised through its links to the police, with many officers owning or having a share in taxis.
- The industry's influence has led to cases of abuse and extortion against ordinary people, highlighting the need for greater accountability and oversight.
