Kenny says Enough Morero
Johannesburg – City of Johannesburg’s Member of the Mayoral Committee for Transport, Kenny Kunene, has launched a sharp attack on the ongoing suspension of Rea Vaya feeder bus services, which has left thousands of Soweto commuters in a tough spot since December 2025. In a bold move, Kunene distanced himself from the blame and pointed fingers at Executive Mayor Dada Morero, declaring that enough is enough when it comes to delays in getting the buses back on the road.
This public spat highlights deep frustrations within the city’s leadership over a key public transport system that has ground to a halt, forcing residents to rely on costlier taxis or long walks. Kunene’s outburst came during a time when safety fears and disputes with taxi associations have kept the feeder routes idle, sparking widespread calls for quick fixes to ease the daily struggles of ordinary people.
Background to the Rea Vaya Shutdown
The Rea Vaya Bus Rapid Transit system, launched over a decade ago to provide affordable and reliable public transport in Johannesburg, includes main trunk routes and feeder services that connect outlying areas like Soweto to central stations. These feeder buses are vital for many, carrying passengers from townships to hubs where they can catch longer rides into the city for work, school, or errands.
Trouble started brewing in late 2025 when threats and violence escalated against bus operators. Two Rea Vaya drivers were tragically murdered in separate incidents, raising alarms about safety on the routes. In response, the city suspended feeder services in Soweto to protect staff and passengers, but what was meant to be a short pause has dragged on for weeks. Taxi associations, including the Witwatersrand African Taxi Association and Nancefield-Dube West Taxi Association, have been accused of blocking buses from operating, allegedly to protect their own business interests.
This is not the first clash between buses and taxis in the city. Past tensions have led to strikes, blockades, and even arson attacks on vehicles. The current standoff stems from disagreements over route sharing and compensation, with taxi operators feeling squeezed out by the subsidised bus system. Despite meetings and promises, the buses remain parked, leaving gaps in the transport network that hit low-income families hardest.
Kunene’s Fiery Criticism and Actions
Kunene, known for his outspoken style, did not hold back in his recent statements. He claimed the suspension has been mishandled at the top, directly calling out Mayor Morero for failing to step in decisively. “Enough is enough, Morero,” Kunene reportedly said, emphasising that the feeder buses are not just an add-on but a core part of the city’s legal transport framework. He argued that dragging feet on resolutions only worsens the plight of commuters who depend on these services daily.
To push for change, Kunene held a key meeting with Soweto taxi associations earlier this month. The talks aimed to clear the way for 45 buses to resume operations, allowing people in areas like Orlando, Diepkloof, and Meadowlands to get moving again. He condemned the associations for their role in the blockade, urging police to step up protection for Rea Vaya vehicles and staff. In a separate move to tackle the violence, Kunene even offered a R100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of those behind the drivers’ murders, showing his commitment to rooting out threats.
Kunene stressed that the blame should not fall on his department alone. He pointed to broader city leadership issues, saying the unilateral decisions – or lack thereof – have prolonged the crisis. His comments have stirred debate, with some seeing it as a needed wake-up call, while others view it as internal politicking within the coalition government.
Mayor Morero’s Response to the Claims
Mayor Dada Morero hit back quickly, rejecting Kunene’s accusations that the suspension was handled without proper consultation. He demanded solid evidence to back up claims of unilateral actions, insisting that decisions were made collectively to prioritise safety amid real dangers. Morero highlighted the complexity of balancing public transport needs with ongoing threats from criminal elements in the taxi industry.
In public addresses, Morero has called for unity among city officials, saying finger-pointing does little to help stranded residents. He acknowledged the hardships but defended the pause as a necessary step to prevent further loss of life. The mayor’s office has promised ongoing negotiations with taxi groups and transport stakeholders to find a lasting solution, though no firm timeline has been set for resuming services.
This exchange between Kunene and Morero reveals cracks in Johannesburg’s governing coalition, where different parties – including Kunene’s Patriotic Alliance – must work together. Such public disagreements could slow down progress, but they also shine a light on accountability in managing the city’s transport woes.
Impact on Soweto Commuters and Daily Life
For the people of Soweto, the shutdown has been nothing short of a nightmare. Thousands wake up earlier each day to catch alternative rides, often paying double or triple the Rea Vaya fares for taxis. Some have resorted to walking long distances or hitchhiking, risking safety on busy roads. Parents worry about children getting to school on time, while workers face docked pay for late arrivals.
One commuter shared how the lack of buses has added hours to their routine: “We used to hop on the feeder and connect easily, but now it’s chaos at the stations.” Reports of overcrowding on remaining trunk routes have surged, with long queues and frustrated crowds becoming the norm. Local businesses in Soweto feel the pinch too, as fewer people travel for shopping or services.
The economic toll is significant in a township already grappling with high unemployment. Affordable transport like Rea Vaya was designed to bridge these gaps, making job opportunities in the city centre more accessible. Without it, inequality deepens, and the shutdown exacerbates existing challenges like fuel costs and traffic congestion in Johannesburg’s sprawling layout.
Broader Challenges in Johannesburg’s Transport System
This crisis fits into a larger pattern of transport troubles in the city. Johannesburg’s roads and bridges are aging, with reports showing many in poor condition due to years of underfunding and maintenance delays. The Rea Vaya system itself has faced strikes, financial disputes, and integration issues with taxis since its start.
Violence in the taxi industry remains a stubborn problem, with turf wars leading to shootings and intimidation. The murders of the Rea Vaya drivers are suspected to be linked to these conflicts, where operators fight for control of lucrative routes. City officials have ramped up campaigns to shut down illegal taxi ranks and enforce regulations, but enforcement is tough in areas with strong association influence.
On a positive note, efforts to expand public transport continue, with plans for more electric buses and integrated ticketing. However, resolving the feeder shutdown is seen as a test of the city’s ability to deliver safe, reliable services amid these pressures.
Path Forward: Calls for Resolution and Safety
As tensions simmer, both Kunene and Morero have committed to more talks with taxi associations and community leaders. Police involvement is key, with Kunene pushing for escorts on vulnerable routes to deter threats. Commuters and advocacy groups are urging swift action, perhaps through emergency funding or temporary alternatives like subsidised shuttles.
The city has issued notices keeping passengers updated, but many want concrete dates for resumption. In the long run, experts suggest better dialogue between buses and taxis, including shared revenue models, to avoid future shutdowns. For now, Soweto residents hope the leadership spat leads to real progress, putting people before politics.
This ongoing saga underscores the vital role of public transport in building a fairer Johannesburg. With determination from all sides, the feeder buses could soon roll again, easing the burden on those who need them most.
🔴Central News Special Edition | Issue 122: Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Suspended Ekurhuleni Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi Vows ‘I Can’t Go to Jail and Leave My Kids’ Amid Blue Lights Saga Scrutiny 🔴
Download here⬇️⬇️⬇️
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube