The Bafokeng Taxi Owners association in Rustenburg in the North West has taken a prompt action against a driver who was found guilty of misconduct following an assault on a fellow driver over the weekend.
In a video which was widely circulated on social media over the weekend, the victim Tumisang Mafatshe was seen assaulted several times by his attacker Kgothatso Mabale who has since been expelled.
Speaking on YOUFM the association’s Chairperson Arthur Phalatse confirmed that Mabale was dismissed immediately due to misconduct.
“It was not the first time we received complaints about his bad behaviour.
We have established relevant structures that deal with such behaviour.
He appeared before the disciplinary committee which found him guilty, we have the constitution as the association, and we have by-laws, code of conduct that are inviolable.
There are also training officers who from time to time call on these drivers to speak with them, remind them of these rules and codes of conduct, but it has really shocked us that it got to that point where they are now assaulting each other,” said Phalatse.
The chairperson highlighted that decision was taken after the association interviewed both the victim and the perpetrator.
“We sat them down like parents scolding their kids.
We then established that Kgothatso became violent unnecessarily hence we decided to immediately expel him.
They were both (drivers) driving from Rustenburg heading to Chaneng, but this incident happened at the Phokeng Mall when the two were supposed to share passengers as per their destinations.
What sparked the attack is still a mystery to us, but what we are sure about is that we will not allow violence in our association,” warned Phalatse.
According to the association, the victim was provided with counselling, while his attacker was banned from driving again unless pardoned and accepted back.
“We will ensure that Kgothatso doesn’t emerge anywhere with the 17 taxi associations operating in the Rustenburg district unless he goes to work in Gauteng.
We have already shared our decision with other taxi associations.
We can’t deny him the opportunity to work but his unbecoming behaviour cannot go unpunished,” explained Phalatse.
Meanwhile, the incident had sparked outrage from passengers who reacted angrily to the video, demanding drastic action against the perpetrator, while others were threatening to boycott or not to with commute his taxi.
The association has recommitted itself to maintain a safe, respectful, and professional environment for commuters, drivers, and all stakeholders, vowing to root out all bad apples within it.
