Ivory Park Taxi Association chairperson preach respect, trust and unity
Despite internal factions, the AGM was a success, with the executive being voted in unopposed, thanks to the involvement of Santaco's greater Johannesburg region.
The Ivory Park Taxi Association (IPTA) have elected the former deputy chairperson as the new chairperson, unopposed.
Vusi Macheke, who assumed the role following the untimely passing of revered taxi boss Buti Johannes Mkonza, was elected chairperson and will be assisted by Lindelani Mfuphi.
Eric Dlamini, former public relations officer (PRO), was made secretary, while Mathews Mathotse assumed the PRO role.
Also read: The unspoken language of Johannesburg, a guide to taxi gestures
Dlamini will work alongside Selina Mazhe, with Lefa Matemana expected to ensure the healthy finances of the association remain good as treasurer.
Other filled positions were: training officer, which will be Steve Moreme, grievance officer Zithule Mchunu, and disciplinary committee, spearheaded by Isaa Nyalungu.
The well-organised AGM was held at the Gallagher Convention Centre on May 21. Much as it was well organised, it was evident that the passing of Mkonza left a huge void, as it emerged that there were issues of ‘slates’ within the association aiming for the top position.
Also read: Santaco president: Ivory Park Taxi Association violence has no place in Ivory Park
A slate refers to a list of individuals nominated for positions or elections, typically within an association or council. It is a term used in the context of internal elections within associations, especially when there are rivalries or power struggles between two groups.
However, Veli Twala, chairperson of the South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in the greater Johannesburg Region, ensured the factions were dismantled in the name of unity.
It is unclear how Twala managed to do this, as IPTA’s business partners and media were requested to leave, with only IPTA members remaining to iron out those issues.
Speaking shortly after the elections, Macheke said the new leadership needed to steer the association forward, and ensure there is unity, despite the cliques. “Today is not just a day of casting votes; it is a day of reaffirming our commitment to unity, service, and progress. It is a demonstration of democracy within our ranks, where every member has a voice and a role in shaping our future. We want to also ensure that we change the industry into a reputable business.”
Read more: Three Ivory Park Taxi Association patrollers killed in two separate incidents on busy road
When asked how they resolved the factions, Macheke answered: “Yes, there were three issues of slates, but we managed to resolve that internally. We opted to add some positions in the executive, to ensure that all members feel represented.”
The association was bestowed with two private vehicles by their business partners, McCarthy Toyota Midrand and Altrack, respectively.
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