SALARY SHOWDOWN: JOBURG MUNICIPAL WORKERS CLOSE MAIN ROADS, DIRUPTS TRAFFIC.
Written by Neo Molefi on August 23, 2024
By Lebohang Ndashe
On 22 August, Braamfontein Precinct, M1 and M2 highways were left paralyzed as disgruntled South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) affiliated workers took to the streets as they embarked in a strike – causing traffic.
Chaos erupted on the roads as approximately 10, 000 SAMWU striking workers blocked roads with rocks, debris and dumping trunks, demanding R10,3 million in unpaid wages from the city.
Traffic at M1 highway in Johannesburg as SAMWU affiliated workers protest.
JMPD and SAPS personnel kept a watchful eye on the workers, backed by three helicopters providing aerial surveillance, spokesperson Xolani Fihla said they will remain on high alert for any resurgence following a vow by SAMWU to sustain the strike until a satisfactory agreement is reached.
Workers revealed to VOW FM News that repeated engagements with the city since 2016 have yielded no results, with their pleas for a 6% salary increase, employment benefits and grade promotion falling on deaf ears.
Thinah Makhala, one of the dissatisfied workers, told VOW FM News that the City of Johannesburg Municipality despite being one of the biggest, its municipal workers are earning less.
Thinah Makhala, one of the dissatisfied workers, told VOW FM News that the City of Johannesburg Municipality despite being one of the biggest, its municipal workers are earning less.
Striking municipal workers headed to the M1 highway bridge during their demonstration.
In the aftermath of a heated protest, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi announced on his X account that the city will engage in talks with the union’s leadership to resolve outstanding issues.
