Cape Times reports that a union and lobby groups have urged that the next Western Cape Metrorail regional manager must be a person not only of integrity but also with the drive to get the train service back on track for the working class.

The Passenger Rail Agency of SA (Prasa) is expected to advertise the managerial position shortly, after former boss Richard Walker was fired in June. Walker, who has yet to speak out about his dismissal, faced a number of allegations, including fruitless and wasteful expenditure. The SA Transport and Allied Workers’ Union (Satawu) expressed worry over the deterioration of commuter services in the region during Walker’s tenure. According to Satawu spokesperson Amanda Tshemese, they were the first to call for Walker's suspension in 2020. “We definitely welcome the final report and his dismissal. Anything or anyone not performing well at the entity must be shown the door,” Tshemese commented. United Commuters Voice (UCV) spokesperson João Jardim said Walker’s dismissal was “long overdue” as he had been given many chances to turn the rail system in the province around. Civil group #UniteBehind’s Zukiswa Vuka said the region needed leaders who prioritised the central line and had a community safety plan. “The plan to recover the central line has been at a snail’s pace. The war of words between the national departments and the City is also not assisting,” Vuka said.

• Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Okuhle Hlati at Cape Times

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