Gauteng MEC Calls for Formalization of E-Hailing Services Amid Industry Conflicts

Soweto, Gauteng — Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has renewed calls to formalize the e-hailing industry following the fatal attack on a driver at Maponya Mall and rising tensions between e-hailing operators and taxi associations.

Fragmented Leadership Stalls Progress

Addressing media, Diale-Tlabela highlighted the difficulty of engaging with the e-hailing sector, describing its leadership as “highly fragmented and inconsistent.”

“It is quite difficult at the provincial level because the leadership we meet is often disputed. Some claim they are rightful leaders while others deny it,” she said.

Attempts to form a structured committee involving mall management, councillors, the taxi industry, and e-hailing representatives have been hampered by irregular participation from e-hailing leaders.

Fatal Attack Sparks Urgency

The MEC’s remarks come in the wake of a driver’s death near Maponya Mall. Law enforcement is still verifying his association with any e-hailing group, while investigations into the attack continue.

“We are very concerned about people dying because of conflicts in the industry,” Diale-Tlabela stressed.

Push for Accountability and Safety

The MEC argued that formalization is the only way to ensure accountability, safety, and effective conflict resolution:

• All e-hailing drivers should register under recognized associations.
• Operators must comply with licensing requirements.
• Illegal operations will be removed through law enforcement.

“If you are operating illegally, it will be painful. Formalize yourselves, organize, and recognize your associations. Only then can we address the sector effectively,” she warned.

Taxi Industry and Protest Demands

While protesters demanded the removal of taxi operators from Maponya Mall, taxi representatives denied involvement in the fatal incident and pledged to maintain peace.

“There are allegations and counter-allegations, but our goal is to mediate and ensure illegal operations are stopped,” the MEC said.

Government Action Plan

• Increased law enforcement presence across Gauteng.
• Ongoing engagement with e-hailing associations to stabilize the industry.
• Plans for a formalized framework to regulate and protect both drivers and passengers.

For now, Diale-Tlabela maintains that regulation is no longer optional but essential, given the growing risks faced by e-hailing drivers and commuters in Gauteng.