Gauteng MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela urges formalization of e-hailing services following a fatal incident at Maponya Mall, highlighting fragmentation and safety concerns.

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

Soweto, Gauteng – Gauteng Roads and Transport MEC, Kedibone Diale-Tlabela, has emphasized the urgent need to formalize e-hailing services across the province following ongoing conflicts and a recent fatal incident at Maponya Mall.

Speaking to members of the media, MEC Diale-Tlabela noted that the e-hailing sector is highly fragmented, making regulation and enforcement a challenge. “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.

The MEC highlighted that attempts to create a structured committee, which includes the mall management, local councillors, the taxi industry, and e-hailing representatives, have faced difficulties due to inconsistent participation. “From time to time, the e-hailing representatives are not consistent, which prevents us from registering progress on agreements,” Diale-Tlabela explained.

The remarks come after the death of an e-hailing driver, whose affiliation with any association is still being verified. Law enforcement has been actively investigating the incident. “We are allowing the law enforcement to investigate the matter. We are very concerned about people dying because of conflicts in the industry,” said the MEC.

MEC Diale-Tlabela stressed that formalization is critical to ensure accountability and safety. She urged all e-hailing operators and drivers to register under recognized associations and comply with legal requirements. “We must force the formalization of e-halers. This will allow us to meet, track progress, and address issues more effectively,” she said.

The MEC also addressed tensions between the e-hailing sector and the taxi industry. While part of the demand from protesters was that taxi operators vacate Maponya Mall, taxi representatives committed to maintaining peace and denied involvement in the recent incident. “There are allegations and counter-allegations, but our goal is to mediate and ensure illegal operations are stopped,” Diale-Tlabela said.

Law enforcement presence across Gauteng has been reinforced to remove illegal operators and maintain order. MEC Diale-Tlabela called on e-hailing drivers to cooperate: “If you are operating illegally, it will be painful. Formalize yourselves, organize, and recognize your associations. Only then can we address the sector effectively.”

The Department of Roads and Transport plans to continue engaging with e-hailing representatives to mediate conflicts, enforce regulations, and ensure the safety of both drivers and passengers in the province.