CAPE TOWN, Western Cape — A planned Golden Arrow bus strike in Cape Town has been successfully halted after the Cape Town High Court granted an interdict against the National Union for All Sectors (NUFAS), ensuring uninterrupted public transport services for daily commuters.
The industrial action was initially organized over grievances regarding Golden Arrow’s disciplinary processes. NUFAS representatives cited unfair terms and conditions related to short-term and long-term disciplinary measures, which can range from six to 12 months, as well as the company’s use of cameras to monitor bus drivers.
Following the High Court’s decision to block the strike, Golden Arrow Bus Services welcomed the interdict. A company spokesperson confirmed that operations are running according to schedule and that teams are closely monitoring the situation to keep passengers informed of any potential changes. The statement emphasized the company’s ongoing focus on maintaining safe, reliable, and sustainable public transport, while remaining committed to resolving outstanding matters with organized labor through constructive engagement and appropriate legal processes.
Despite the legal setback, NUFAS representatives made it clear that the dispute is not over. The union has instructed its members to return to work and adhere to their normal rosters for the time being. However, they announced that their legal department is actively drafting an opposing affidavit to challenge the interdict and any potential leave to appeal. Union representatives warned that if Golden Arrow petitions the Labour Appeal Court, the union will vigorously oppose it, and members will proceed with strike action as soon as a future judgment permits.
The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) also weighed in on the dispute, stating that the planned strike by NUFAS was uncalled for. A SATU representative clarified that their members would not participate in the industrial action, criticizing NUFAS for not being a registered participant in the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council. Nevertheless, the representative did not spare Golden Arrow’s leadership, describing the company’s management as “greedy and incompetent.”
On the ground, commuters reported a seamless travel experience throughout the morning. Passengers noted that buses were running perfectly on schedule without any rowdiness or disruptions. Commuters traveling to areas such as Bellville highlighted the punctuality, safety, and professionalism of the drivers, describing the morning service as normal and stress-free despite earlier rumors of a strike. One passenger noted the drivers were polite and attentive, reinforcing that the service remained perfect and reliable for the daily commute.
While the immediate threat of a shutdown has been averted, the underlying labor tensions suggest that the legal and industrial battle over Golden Arrow’s disciplinary policies is likely to continue in the courts.
