 
MEDIA ALERT
MEC BHEKI CELE WILL HOST AN IMBIZO IN STANGER AND KWAMAPHUMULO FOLLOWING THE SUSPENSION OF TAXI OPERATIONS
SUNDAY 14 AUGUST 2005 KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison Mr. Bheki Cele will host an Imbizo at KwaDukuza and KwaMaphumulo on Sunday 14 August 2005 at Sabuyazi Stadium in KwaMaphumulo at 9h00 and Luthuli Centre at 12pm in KwaDukuza. The purpose of the meeting is for the MEC to address communities about the current situation in KwaDukuza and KwaMaphumulo this follows the suspension of the Taxi Operations on Sunday last week pending the outcome of the Special Tribunal which will expedite the process and end the ongoing violence which has lasted for more than 15 years killing innocent passengers, drivers and owners." I will ensure public safety in any given situation, and also ensure that the silent majority is heard" Cele said. Alternative transport in a form of buses have been arranged for the communities in KwaDukuza and KwaMaphumulo however there were reports of some people walking long distances due to unavailability of buses. "Special task teams have been put in place to ensure that our plan is monitored accordingly, we will strategise on the distribution of buses and add more if needed" He said. There were no reports of violence and any acts of intimidation since the suspension of the Taxi Operations. "We appreciate the fact that both parties are willing to comply and this is an indication of hope that we shall all work together in bringing lasting peace in KwaDukuza and KwaMaphumulo" Cele said. The mandate of the department of transport is to ensure safe, affordable, effective and sustainable mode of transport in KwaZulu-Natal and furthermore the MEC’s vision is to defend the weak. "For as long as I serve as the MEC for Transport, Community Safety and Liaison, commuters will remain the ‘bosses’ of the transport industry and their interests will always be a priority in both departments" He added. Imbizo will be attended by Amakhosi around KwaDukuza and KwaMaphumulo, members of the Transport portfolio committee and dignitaries from both local municipalities.
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