Ivory Park Taxi Association Unites Behind New Chairperson Vusi Macheke

The air at Gallagher Convention Centre on May 21 carried a mix of tension and quiet hope. Members of the Ivory Park Taxi Association (IPTA) gathered for their Annual General Meeting — not just to elect a new leadership, but to find healing after the loss of their respected leader, Buti Johannes Mkonza. His passing left a noticeable gap. As one member quietly put it, “You can feel he’s not here, even in the way we speak to each other.”

But even with factions bubbling beneath the surface and whispered rivalries threatening to overshadow the day, what unfolded was far from chaos. Instead, unity prevailed — thanks in part to some behind-the-scenes diplomacy by taxi industry leaders.

Vusi Macheke Steps In Unopposed

Rising from his role as deputy chairperson, Vusi Macheke was elected chairperson of IPTA without a single vote of opposition. It was a powerful sign that, despite internal differences, the association was ready to move forward together. Macheke’s speech was measured, humble, and forward-looking.

“Today is more than just about leadership,” he said. “It’s about finding each other again. Respect, trust, and unity — that’s the only way this association survives and thrives.”

He also acknowledged the tensions of the day, hinting at internal slates that had formed behind the scenes. “There were divisions, yes. But we made a decision to expand our leadership team to include everyone. That way, no one is left out. We need to lead with open hearts, not closed circles.”

How the Factions Fell Away

There were strong indications that the association had fractured into “slates” — informal groupings that backed different leaders. In many political or organisational contexts, this can lead to chaos. But something unusual happened: instead of clashing publicly, the IPTA leadership locked the doors, asked media and business partners to leave, and dealt with the issues privately.

No one knows exactly what went on in that closed session, but Veli Twala, chairperson of Santaco’s Greater Johannesburg Region, is credited with helping cool tempers and focus minds.

Twala’s message was simple: “The industry is bigger than your ego. Let’s make it about the commuters, about the legacy, about each other.”

A New Executive, Built to Reflect the Collective

Alongside Macheke, Lindelani Mfuphi steps in as deputy chairperson, providing continuity and balance. Eric Dlamini, formerly the public relations officer (PRO), now serves as secretary, supported by Selina Mazhe. The PRO role has been filled by Mathews Mathotse, while Lefa Matemana will ensure financial stability as treasurer.

Other appointments include:

• Steve Moreme, training officer

• Zithule Mchunu, grievance officer

• Isaa Nyalungu, head of the disciplinary committee

This leadership mix reflects not just strategic planning, but a deep effort to include voices from across the spectrum. It’s a sign that IPTA has taken its internal reconciliation seriously.

Gifts, Gratitude, and Business Ties

In an uplifting surprise, IPTA received two private vehicles from long-time partners McCarthy Toyota Midrand and Altrack. It was a gesture that went beyond business — a nod to the association’s resilience and renewed focus.

The generosity didn’t go unnoticed. “It shows that when we pull together, others see the value in backing us,” said Mfuphi, who sees the cars as tools for professionalising IPTA’s operations.

The taxi industry is often viewed with suspicion — a space of rough edges and frayed tempers. But behind the wheel are men and women trying to organise, professionalise, and uplift their communities.

What happened at Gallagher wasn’t just a leadership change. It was a quiet transformation: from infighting to unity, from uncertainty to shared vision.

As Macheke takes the wheel, his words echo: “We want to turn this industry into a reputable business. One that our children can be proud of.”

Unity Can’t Be Negotiated, It Must Be Chosen

The IPTA showed South Africa something rare: that it’s possible to disagree, regroup, and come out stronger. It’s a lesson for every sector, not just transport.

If this new leadership keeps its promise to prioritise service, integrity, and unity, then Ivory Park’s streets — and its people — have a lot to look forward to.

Let’s support leadership that leads with heart. Let’s back those working to build, not break.

{Source: Midrand Reporter}

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