Online Reporter
Diana Nherera
Herald Reporter
THE Passenger Association of Zimbabwe (PAZ) has dismissed claims that it called for the banning of Bolt Cutter buses from operating on the Harare-Mutoko-Nyamapanda route following the assault of passengers by one of the company’s conductors.
In a statement, PAZ said it never advocated the suspension of the operator, stressing that the incident arose from the actions of an individual conductor following a dispute over a promised seat at the next bus stop.
PAZ said it respected the rule of law and remained committed to resolving disputes through legal and established channels.
“We do not engage in actions that are outside the law,” the association said.
“We have witnessed cases worse than this where operators were not banned. As PAZ, we always advocate for dialogue and engagement to resolve such issues.”
The association condemned the use of violence in resolving disputes and urged passengers and transport operators to report criminal conduct to the police.
“We do not support violence as a tool for resolving disputes. Instead, we advise all concerned parties to report such matters to the police,” read the statement.
PAZ noted that it has successfully handled numerous disputes involving passengers and public transport crews through engagement with transport company management and industry associations.
“Most transport companies and associations have a code of conduct, and we are pleased that when incidents are reported, they are now being attended to promptly, particularly by members of the Zimbabwe Passenger Transport Organisation and other kombi associations,” it said.
The association welcomed the outcome of the court case involving the Bolt Cutter conductor who assaulted two passengers at Musami Cross in Murewa.
“The conductor was sentenced to seven months’ imprisonment. This sets a precedent for all bus crews and touts who may consider using violence,” PAZ said.
