COSATU in Gauteng fully supports the strike by SAMWU members in the City of Tshwane. It is criminal for management to give themselves bonuses and increase their salaries, whilst the majority of workers are not given what is due to them. Much as the strike has caused serious disruptions in the City, which by the way is the whole purpose of the industrial action, we call on all commuters, and the community to support these workers, who are suffering under the brutal administration of the DA/EFF led municipality.

We have noted reckless comments by the City that cases will be opened against workers who used their tools of the trade to advance their struggle. This type of intimidation will only worsen the situation because workers have been complaining about these issues for quite some time without a concrete resolution.

COSATU is also dismayed and disgusted by the proposed R7 million handshake lined up for the mayor, who is also accused of mismanaging the Glad Africa Contract that has cost the City millions of rands, as confirmed by the Auditor-General’s audit report.

The Federation is calling for the City of Tshwane to return to the negotiation table, as a matter of urgency and resolve this unnecessary impasse within the next 12 hours or else COSATU will not have an option but to mobilize other workers and society to intensify the strike.

Issued by COSATU

Amos Monyela (Cosatu Gauteng Chairperson)

Cell: 079 493 5002