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Growing Calls to End Tshwane Municipal Strike as AfriForum Urges Police Intervention
There are growing calls that the Tshwane municipal strike must end. Affiliated with the SA Municipal Workers Union (Samwu), employees have been on strike to demand a pay increase. Per IOL, this action has significantly impacted city services.
The strike began after the City of Tshwane did not allocate funds for employee pay raises in its budget, which was tabled in April. The metro awaits a judgment from senior commissioner Eleanor Hambidge in seeking an exemption from proposed pay increases at the local government’s collective bargaining council.
The Congress of the People (Cope) recently called on the Public Protector and the SA Human Rights Commission to mediate between the City and the striking workers. Samwu has also voiced its call to end the protest, while the DA has threatened legal action if the strike persists.
Adding to the pressure, AfriForum has written to Police Minister Bheki Cele and National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, urging them to prevent further disruption of service delivery in the capital. AfriForum’s legal representatives have called on law enforcement to provide security for refuse removal workers so they can resume their essential duties.
Also read: Tshwane Seeks Compensation from Samwu for Strike-Related Damages
Overflowing rubbish and service disruptions have recently plagued the city due to the strike. AfriForum’s letter demands that Cele and Masemola enforce the court ruling prohibiting the unlawful strike and compel workers to return to their jobs. The organisation also insists on swift action against those involved in violence, intimidation, or property damage.
AfriForum’s strategic adviser, Johan Kruger, criticised the police for not promptly ending the strike, citing safety hazards from striking workers. Two refuse trucks were allegedly set on fire, and a municipal employee was attacked.
AfriForum has set a deadline for Cele and Masemola to commit to action and warned of further legal measures if their demands remain unanswered. The organisation emphasises the importance of maintaining public order and safety for all residents amid the ongoing unrest.
Meanwhile, MMC for Roads and Transportation Katlego Mathebe announced that bus services would resume, offering relief to commuters affected by the strike. The strike has left many commuters stranded, and the city is taking steps to restore public transportation services from September 12, 2023.
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Picture: X / leftypol_org
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