Seven people have reportedly been killed and 11 others injured after a minibus taxi allegedly made a sudden U-turn into the path of an oncoming Algoa bus in Kariega this morning.
The Democratic Alliance is deeply saddened by this latest loss of life on Eastern Cape roads. We will be demanding an immediate and comprehensive investigation into this crash, as well as stricter law enforcement measures from Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha.
The victims were ordinary workers being transported from KwaNobuhle to work in the town. They were trying to earn a living for their families when this devastating tragedy struck their vehicle. Initial reports indicate all seven who died were passengers in the taxi.
This incident once again exposes the urgent need for decisive action to improve road safety, strengthen visible traffic policing, and enforce traffic laws across the province.
The DA will write to Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha, requesting an immediate and comprehensive investigation into this crash. The investigation must include a full review of the taxi operator’s licensing status, the vehicle’s roadworthiness compliance, adherence to approved routes, and whether all relevant safety requirements were met.
This crash follows another major incident last month that also claimed seven lives. The pattern of road deaths in the Eastern Cape is unacceptable, and it cannot be allowed to continue as though these tragedies are inevitable.
I will also request the immediate intensification of visible traffic law enforcement on the KwaNobuhle to Kariega commuter route, and on every other high-risk corridor across the province.
That means regular roadblocks, targeted patrols, proper vehicle inspections, and real consequences for operators and drivers who flout the rules.
No family should have to bury loved ones simply because they boarded a taxi to get to work. The people of Kariega, and the broader Eastern Cape, deserve a public transport system and road network where safety is treated as a non-negotiable priority.
The DA will continue to fight for accountability, safer roads, and a transport system that protects the lives of ordinary people.