After the Taxi Association forbids contract drivers, commuters in Malmesbury stage a boycott.

 

 

By Nande Mpahlwa

1May 2025

After the Taxi Association forbids contract drivers, commuters in Malmesbury stage a boycott.

 

 

 

Residents in Malmesbury were surprised to hear that the Malmesbury Taxi Association will stop offering rides for people who do not have contracts. This change will take effect on May 1, 2025.

 

In an interview with Radio 7441 Media, the Association explained that they make transportation contracts directly with companies. These contracts help transport their employees. From now on, all companies must sign written agreements with the Association to provide rides for their staff. The decision to stop services for those without contracts is part of a plan to reorganize. It is not meant to hurt or exclude anyone in the community.

The Association is making changes to follow its own rules. These changes will help solve problems caused by informal transport agreements. These agreements are not part of the Association’s official system. When commuters complain about them, officials cannot fix the issues because there are no formal agreements. The goal of this restructuring is to create order and clarity in how the Association operates.

The Association wants to assure everyone that school children’s transportation will not change. However, private vehicles and bakkies that transport learners without permission will not be allowed anymore. These unauthorized services create problems by taking fare-paying commuters away from the official routes.

The Malmesbury Taxi Association is dedicated to serving the community. It aims to provide reliable and organized transportation. Officials know that some employees make agreements with the Association on their own. These agreements can continue, but they need to be formalized and include enough commuters.

The Association also listened to concerns about daily cash payments. To make it easier for commuters, they can now pay their fares monthly. After payment, commuters will receive a tag or ticket that shows they have a valid monthly pass, like those used by bus services.

The Association is proud of its strong record of safety and lack of taxi violence. Recently, it expanded services to new routes in areas like Phase 3 and Saamstam. This will give commuters better access to the central taxi rank.