Media Statement

The recent developments, deaths and the state of scholar transport are of grave concern to the county and the African National Congress (ANC). The ANC takes the nation into confidence, calling for stricter measures for the regulation of the industry through enforcement and revamp of the scholar transport policy.

Since the start of the 2026 school year, the country had witnessed harrowing incidents which accounted for the deaths of school children, shattering futures. Our observation of the industry, including the entire the taxi industry has revealed serious shortcomings, un-roadworthy vehicles, over loading, non-compliance with the law, reckless and negligent driving and disrespect towards commuters and other road users.

As an organisation we call all law enforcement and education authorities, parents and stakeholders for active and direct involvement to urgently address this dire situation, which, in view of these deaths, have reached uncontrollable proportions. The recent threats by the sector for the shutdown due to the impounding of their un-roadworthy vehicles is demonstrative of acts of arrogance and unpreparedness to comply with the law. The law must respond equally to this nonchalant and indifferent attitude by the scholar transport and taxi industry to the crisis engulfing the industry.

We call upon parents to choose the best and safer services in the best interest of their children. South Africa is country founded on the rule of law and order. Any vehicle that is non-compliant must be impounded and necessary steps be taken to restore order.

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