MISA backs provincial rescue of NTI commuters, but commuters are still stranded
21 July 2026
MISA backs provincial rescue of NTI commuters, but commuters are still stranded
MISA, the Motor Industry Staff Association, is grateful that Gauteng Transport MEC Kedibone Diale Tlabela and the Gauteng Provincial Government stepped up and promised to provide temporary buses following the collapse of North West Transport Investments (NTI) but are concerned when this will be provided.
Tlabela assured the media on 11 July 2026 that the busses will be provided “next week”. MISA checked with affected commuters in Hammanskraal today and they confirmed that they still have to rely on taxi’s to commute to work.
The MEC announce the intervention to bring relief to an estimated 3.6 million commuters affected by NTI’s prolonged service disruptions and financial crisis.
“MISA welcome the MEC’s intervention as a step towards restoring dignity and reliability for commuters. But workers are reporting that buses have not been rolled out as promised. MISA has consistently raised this crisis in the media to ensure it was prioritized, and we urge the provincial government to act with urgency so that commuters can travel to work, school, and essential services without further delay,” says Martlé Keyter, MISA’s Chief Executive Officer: Operations.
MISA calls for transparent engagement between the Gauteng and North West provincial governments to resolve NTI’s financial and operational failures. Reports indicate NTI owes over R224 million in unpaid salaries and benefits, alongside significant contractual penalties. This crisis underscores the urgent need for accountability and reform in subsidized bus contracts to prevent future disruptions.
As a union committed to protecting workers and advocating for reliable transport infrastructure, MISA will continue to monitor developments closely. We stand ready to support efforts that safeguard commuters and employees, ensuring that public transport remains a driver of economic inclusion and social stability.
Issued by Sonja Carstens, Manager of MISA’s Media & Communication Department, on behalf of the Union. For press enquiries, contact Pkakamile Hlubi-Majola at 083 367 6417 or email [email protected].
#PROUDLYMISA #MISALEADS #MISACARES #MISAONTHEMOVE #MISAFAMILY