The High Court's recent ruling has brought relief to e-hailing drivers throughout Tshwane, as it prohibits the local metro police from impounding vehicles operating without permits. This legal victory is particularly significant amid the mounting frustrations faced by e-hailing services including Wanatu, Uber, Bolt, and inDrive, which have been grappling with intensified actions from the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD).
For several months, drivers had their vehicles seized, left unable to earn income due to the backlog of operating permit applications at the Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport. On February 21, 2025, the court ruled against the TMPD, responding to the urgent interdict sought by Wanatu, which has been operating since October 2024.
Judith van der Walt, CEO of Wanatu, expressed her satisfaction with the court's decision, stating, "This is not only a victory for the drivers at e-transport services, but for all Pretorians who need safe and convenient transport," as reported by The TimesLIVE. Her sentiments reflect the broader relief shared by many drivers who had been keeping their livelihoods afloat under precarious circumstances.
The TMPD's clampdown on e-hailing operations has primarily affected smaller firms like Wanatu, which serves Afrikaans-speaking clients and utilises an employment model for its drivers, as opposed to the freelance model used by larger competitors. The pressures have forced Wanatu to suspend its operations temporarily, starting from February 5, until it could secure legal protection.
Following the court's decision, Wanatu resumed operations, much to the relief of its drivers, who expressed gratitude for the support they received throughout the ordeal. Van der Walt remarked, "This is a victory for every e-hailing driver in Tshwane. The city cannot punish drivers for a backlog they did not cause," indicating the importance of community solidarity during legal challenges.
Compounding the pressure on e-hailing services has been the Gauteng Department's halt on processing new permit applications, leading to frustration among operators. Of the estimated 20,000 pending applications, several e-hailing drivers found themselves between a rock and a hard place, as they were effectively forced to choose between operating illegally or forgoing their income.
Afriforum, the lobby group assisting Wanatu and other applicants, helped cover the legal fees for the case presented to the court. Their efforts highlighted not only the significance of the legal battle but also how interconnected the fates of various transport services have become. Rala, representing the Tshwane West E-hailing Association, added, "I am happy we won the case and we did this, working together, as we had a common enemy," showcasing the unity among e-hailing drivers.
Working together has proven effective for these operators. The legal actions have shone considerable light on issues many within their industry face, prompting calls for expedited processing of permits to prevent future income disruptions. The enthusiasm shared among e-hailing drivers upon receiving the ruling translates to renewed confidence to operate and serve their community securely.
Throughout this ordeal, Wanatu initiated fundraising efforts through its "Dryf Hoop" (Drive Hope) campaign, aimed at ensuring drivers continued to receive paychecks during the legal tussles. The campaign successfully raised R57,267 from 101 unique donors—though still short of the goal of R1.1 million needed to cover salaries for one month. Their struggle emphasizes the economic vulnerabilities many drivers face, particularly amid regulatory uncertainties.
While operating within safety standards is non-negotiable, Wanatu has responded to the growing concern over security among e-hailing services by implementing numerous protective measures. Their vehicles are equipped with surveillance cameras and panic buttons linked to private security services, showcasing their commitment to enhancing rider and driver safety.
Looking forward, Wanatu has indicated its intention to escalate its legal battle to compel the Gauteng government to address the backlog and recommence the processing of outstanding permit applications. This step is imperative to not only safeguard the interests of their drivers but also to encourage the growth of the e-hailing market throughout the region.
Conclusion: The ruling of the High Court presents not just relief for individual drivers, but it also offers hope for the broader e-hailing industry in Tshwane, underlining the need for systemic change to facilitate fair operation under local laws. How this evolves will be observed closely within the community as all parties work together to establish pathways for progress.