Code of conduct for kombis

Munyaradzi Musiiwa Midlands Bureau
THE Gweru Kombis Association (GKA) has drafted a code of conduct for operators, rank marshals, touts and commuter omnibus crews banning verbal abuse and harassment of commuters, among other things. It also bans use of vulgar language and consumption of alcohol by kombi crews during working hours.

In a statement, GKA said there were rampant cases of vulgarities, theft, abuse and harassment of commuters by rank marshals, touts and kombi crews which had resulted in most commuters preferring pirate taxis. GKA said harassment, abuse of commuters, negligent driving and theft of passengers’ valuables or goods had promoted mushikashika pirate taxis.

“Please note that anyone found doing the following will be dealt with by the law. Alcohol abuse, use of vulgar language at the rank at any given time, stealing of valuables or goods from customers, abusing customers in either way, abuse of vehicles (negligent driving), lack of respect to other operators or any form of misbehaviour,” reads the code of conduct. GKA said it would not protect any tout, marshal or kombi crew that violets the code of conduct and urged commuters to report any form of abuse to the association or the police. The association said the code of conduct will also enhance compliance to council rules and regulations.

“Failure to pay rank fees, you will be forced out until you pay your dues. No kombi is allowed to pick up passengers at undesignated points even during peak hours. Anyone found on the wrong side of the regulations risks reprisals,” said GKA.