Minister Sileku welcomes High Court contempt order against taxi associations

Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, has welcomed the Western Cape High Court's ruling finding the Cape Organisation for the Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA), the Khayelitsha Somerset West Local Taxi Association, and 23 individuals in contempt of court.

The ruling follows an interim order granted by the Western Cape High Court on 28 August 2025, which interdicted the affected taxi associations and their members from interfering with public transport services, intimidating operators, or violating operating licence conditions on specified routes and at key public transport facilities. The order applies to operations at the Somerset West Public Transport Interchange and Routes 611, AA20, AA21, R96 and R97.

As part of the judgment, the Court committed the respondents to 90 days' imprisonment, suspended for three years, on condition that they comply with the existing court order during that period. Should they fail to comply, the suspended sentence may be put into effect, requiring them to serve the 90-day prison term.

Minister Sileku said the judgment sends a strong message that the law must be respected and that the safety of commuters and public transport operators remains a priority.

"This is a big win for the rule of law, for commuters and for every public transport operator who simply wants to work in peace. We welcome this court ruling because it sends a clear message that violence, intimidation and lawlessness will not be tolerated in our public transport system. Every commuter deserves to travel safely, and every operator should be able to work without fear. Those who break the law will be held accountable.”

Minister Sileku added that lasting peace cannot be achieved through court action alone. "It requires everyone to respect the law, support law enforcement, and resolve disputes through lawful and peaceful processes so that commuters can continue to travel safely and reliably."

The Western Cape Mobility Department will continue working closely with law enforcement agencies to enforce the court order, monitor the affected routes, and help ensure that commuters have access to safe and reliable public transport.

Media Enquiries
Byron La Hoe
Acting Media Liaison Officer to Minister Isaac Sileku
Western Cape Mobility Department
Email: Byron.laHoe@westerncape.gov.za