The Western Cape E-Hailing Association (WCEA) has expressed regret ahead of time for any disruption that its monthly protests may create.
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According to them, the planned protests will happen from August through December.
According to IOL, Secretary-General Omar Parker said the purpose of these rallies is to voice continuous complaints about e-hailing services that are available in South Africa, such as Uber, Bolt and Indrive.
The drivers were supposed to be offline on Wednesday; the upcoming dates are 17 September, 22 October, 19 November and 24 December.
‘On these dates, e-hailing services across the Western Cape may experience significant disruptions as drivers unite in protest. We urge all riders to make alternative transportation arrangements on these days and we call on all our members and supporters to conduct themselves in a disciplined manner in carrying out the planned protest actions and demonstrations.’
‘WCEA understands the inconvenience this may cause the public and apologies in advance. However, we believe that these actions are necessary to bring attention to the critical issues affecting drivers and operators.’
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Unfair account deactivation of drivers is one of the issues, according to Parker, since many drivers have had their accounts deactivated without good reason, leaving them without a source of income or legal representation.
Additionally, they disagree with Uber’s policy of a three-year vehicle age limit.
They also oppose vehicle age limit, which is Uber’s policy on a three-year vehicle age limit.
‘Despite South Africa’s advanced and progressive Constitutional and labour laws, we find ourselves in a troubling situation where app-based companies are allowed to act with impunity against gig workers, particularly e-hailing drivers and operators.’
‘These companies have been granted a free ride to exploit and mistreat those who rely on their platforms for income whilst they continue to generate super profits.’
‘This practice not only violates basic principles of fairness but also undermines the spirit of South Africa’s legal framework, which is designed to protect the rights and dignity of workers and all citizens.’
‘Too often, e-hailing drivers and other gig workers find themselves subjected to unfair treatment, including unjust deactivations, exploitative pay structures, wage discrimination and inadequate protection of their personal data.’
‘These practices not only undermine the livelihoods of those who rely on these platforms but also erode trust in the digital economy.’
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Also read:
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Picture: Barna Bartis / Unsplash