Government’s, thus far, unsuccessful attempt at introducing e-tolling in Gauteng has taught us several lessons.

Firstly, it has once again reminded us that this democratic government could not care less about acting in the interest of anyone in this country, but itself. The clumsy heavy-handed tactics and threats uttered by the South African National Roads Agency Limited certainly left a bad taste in one’s mouth, while the lack of transparency around the process demonstrates that government is no closer to embracing the principle of accountability than it ever was.

Secondly, it shows that civil disobedience still has a place in our “liberated” society, as the only way to sway this “people’s” government is through threats of breaking the law and court action, which eventually saw the temporary halting of the dreaded system.

Thirdly, it has shown that big business cannot be counted on to support the interests of the country’s citizens, as it is would rather pander to government’s every whim, regardless of the potentially disastrous effects this may have on the economy. No one in their right mind can argue that e-tolling – at the proposed rates – would be good for the economy of Gauteng, or South Africa, for that matter. The over-taxed motorist would not be the only one to carry the burden, as the increased cost of carrying goods on the province’s highways would have a knock-on effect on every industry sector.

While such a huge increase in logistical spending would cut into businesses’ profit margins and threaten jobs, price increases would also be passed on to the already-overburdened consumer, who would be left with even less disposable income. Thousands of households would undoubtedly face the prospect of financial ruin, and the same fate would most likely await many businesses.

Admittedly, this is a very simplistic take on the effects of e-tolling, as the full long-term impact would be far more complex and far-reaching. However, suffice to say, no one can say that what government tried to do makes any good business sense, by any stretch of the imagination… yet not a single large corporate would stick out its neck.

While not only remaining silent on the issue, I know for a fact that many large corporates wasted no time getting their employees kitted out with e-tags, thus undermining the civil disobedience efforts of various groups and citizens. Thanks for nothing. Not only were you nowhere to be seen when you could have made a difference, you were complicit in government’s shady attempt to extort money from taxpayers. There’s a fine line between being a good corporate citizen and butt-kissing, it seems.

The lone voice left carrying on the fight is the Opposition to Urban Tolling Alliance, a civic organisation that managed to temporarily derail the e-tolling monstrosity, through expensive court action. With so much support, it is unbelievable that this group is still struggling to raise R3.1 million to carry on fighting. Come on, big business, this is small change for you. For once, put your money where your puckered lips are and show you really care about what’s right.

Happy reading!

Martin Czernowalow