By: Phakeme Mnguni
Transport Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa has confirmed that the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has concluded its investigation into the devastating bus crash that claimed the lives of ten Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) members earlier this month.
The crash occurred in the early hours of 17 June near Vryheid, KwaZulu-Natal, as EFF supporters were returning from a Youth Day rally. The bus they were travelling in collided with an oncoming truck, causing it to overturn. The incident resulted in ten confirmed deaths and more than 30 injuries.
Initial findings from the RTMC investigation reveal that the bus was roadworthy, and that no mechanical failure has yet been confirmed. Investigators are focusing on driver conduct, possible human error, and road conditions at the time of the crash.
Deputy Minister Hlengwa described the tragedy as a “sobering reminder” of the urgent need for safer public transport systems and better driver training. He added that a full technical report would be released in the coming days.
“This is not just about finding fault, but about making sure this never happens again,” said Hlengwa during a media briefing. “The RTMC has been instructed to engage directly with public transport operators to reinforce road safety protocols.”
The accident is the third major bus crash in the country in less than two weeks. Similar incidents on the N2 in the Eastern Cape and on Gauteng’s R21 have sparked nationwide concern about the state of public transport and driver fatigue, especially on long-distance routes.
President Cyril Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the families of the victims and called for a full review of interprovincial transport safety measures. He emphasised that “while our infrastructure may hold up, it is human behaviour that often leads to these tragedies.”
The EFF has also called for stricter enforcement of road safety regulations and has demanded that bus companies be held accountable for the welfare of their passengers.
The Department of Transport is now preparing to host a National Road Safety Summit, bringing together operators, regulators, and civil society to address systemic failures in the transport sector.
