Taxi alliance blames government as violence claims the leader’s life
image: SABC
NTA president Francis Masitsa accuses the government of failing to curb crime and taxi violence during the funeral of slain Gauteng chairperson Thamsanqa Moya
by Kelebogile Matlou
Francis Masitsa, the president of the National Taxi Alliance (NTA), has accused the government of being responsible for South Africa’s high crime rate and the rise in murders connected to taxis. Speaking on Sunday at the funeral of Thamsanqa Moya, the chairperson of the NTA Gauteng, who was shot dead on the Soweto Highway last week, Masitsa charged that the government has not taken strong action against criminals, placing the public at risk of violence.
Moya’s killing is thought to be related to the ongoing violence in the taxi sector, which has killed almost 60 people in Gauteng since the year started. Masitsa claimed that insufficient political will and inefficient legal institutions are to blame for the crisis’s worsening.
“It is sad that we, as citizens, have given over our rights to the state to protect us. If a guy murders or rapes, he is condemned to life in prison, but he only serves 7 years before being released. Then the type of sentences imposed serves as an incentive for criminals. “That is why we have repeat offenders,” he argued.
Moya’s family shared emotional tributes, calling him as a father, leader, and mentor whose loss will leave an indelible mark. Nhlanhla, his son, recalled him as a multi-talented individual.
“My dad had a lot of jobs. He was a teacher, a god-fearing man, the head of cab associations, and a former standout soccer player. Being a father to my siblings and me, as well as to numerous other people whose lives he influenced, was, in my opinion, the one hat he wore the most.” he said.
Celiwe, his daughter, remembered his warmth and leadership, saying, “He was more than just a parent. He served as a mentor and instructor. He taught me how to live a humorous and religious life. He will always be missed. However, I am aware that he left a piece of himself in each memory, laugh, and instruction. My father was a multifaceted individual. He was constantly on the road and put in a lot of effort to support us while working as a taxi driver,” Celiwe said.
As of yet, no one has been taken into custody in relation to Moya’s murder. Anyone with knowledge is encouraged to come forward to the police. Moya was buried in Johannesburg’s West Park Cemetery, where his family, coworkers, and neighbors paid tribute to him as a father figure and leader.