President Zuma sends condolences following horror crash
President Jacob Zuma has expressed shock at the deaths of 20 learners during a horrific minibus taxi crash on the R25, between Verena and Bronkhorstspruit, near Pretoria yesterday.
Twenty learners and a taxi driver died following a head-on collision between a minibus taxi and a truck.
"This is a sad and painful tragedy, taking place just when the country is coming to terms with a number of lives that have been lost during the Easter weekend. On behalf of government and all South Africans we extend our heartfelt condolences to families of the leaners, relatives and friends. May their souls rest in peace.
"We further call on law enforcement authorities to swiftly investigate the cause of this horrifying accident that has claimed so many young lives. We also call on all road users in the country to be more vigilant and adhere to the road rules and take safety precautions seriously to avoid unnecessary loss of life," said President Zuma.
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Meanwhile, the African National Congress (ANC) said the crash is a chilling reminder that, despite the best efforts of road traffic enforcement authorities, the numbers of lives lost to accidents on the country's roads remains worryingly high
"The ANC commends emergency and fire services as well as members of the community who were on the scene to attend to the injured," said ANC spokesperson Khusela Sangoni.
Sangoni said far too many lives are being lost and called for a full enquiry into the circumstances surrounding the crash
"The African National Congress extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and calls on ANC structures and government to provide all the necessary assistance to them at this difficult time."