29 February 2024
The South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) convened a Special Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting in accordance with Clause 9.2.5 of the Union’s Constitution. This Special CEC, which took place virtually on February 29th, was attended by delegates from all provinces to address salary and wage negotiations, organisational issues, finances of the organisation and political matters.
On salary and wage negotiations
The Special CEC acknowledged that the current salary and wage collective agreement, concluded in the South African Local Government Bargaining Council (SALGBC), will expire on June 30, 2024. Negotiations for the next financial year will commence among the parties in the SALGBC.
In light of rising inflation and the cost of living, the meeting consolidated mandates from provinces and agreed to present SAMWU’s demands as follows;
1. A single-year collective agreement.
2. A 15% or R4000 salary increase, whichever is greater, to help members cope with the rising cost of living.
3. A sectoral minimum wage of R15 000 to ensure decent living standards for all municipal workers.
4. A 70:30 medical aid subsidy, with the employer contributing 70% and employees contributing 30%, to improve access to affordable healthcare.
5. A R3000 housing allowance for all municipal workers to support members facing housing challenges.
6. A demand for the provision of serviced stands for municipal workers to build their own homes, promoting homeownership and long-term stability.
7. Six months of fully paid leave for maternity, paternity, and adoption leave to support work-life balance and family well-being.
On Elections Roadmap
As per the Constitution of the Union, the current term of Shopstewards is set to come to an end this year. Consequently, the meeting received a report on preparations for the renewal of mandates for all structures, including Shopstewards, Local Office Bearers, Regional Office Bearers, Provincial Office Bearers, and National Office Bearers.
In accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, the Special CEC adopted an elections roadmap as follows:
1. All Shopstewards elections to be conducted from July until September 2024.
2. Regional Shopsteward Councils to convene during the months of October and November 2024.
3. Provincial Congresses to be held between the months of March and June 2025.
4. The 13th National Congress to take place between December 2025 and March 2026.
This roadmap outlines the timeline for the renewal of mandates and the election process for various structures within the Union, ensuring compliance with constitutional provisions and facilitating the democratic functioning of the organisation.
On Amanzi Bargaining Council (ABC)
The meeting received a report on the Amanzi Bargaining Council (ABC), which represents water boards across the country. Recognizing the importance of ensuring all water boards have a voice in the council, the meeting resolved that each Water Board shall have representation in the ABC Central Council. This commitment to fair representation strengthens the ABC’s ability to advocate effectively for the needs of our members within the Water Sector.
On political
The Special CEC received a report from the Political Commission which was held earlier in February. The Special noted that the term for the 6th administration is coming to an end and consequently, the country will on May 29 be holding general elections.
The Special CEC acknowledged the resolutions of our federation, COSATU, regarding its support for the African National Congress (ANC) in the upcoming elections. As an affiliate of COSATU, the Union will align with the resolution of COSATU.
However, the meeting also acknowledged significant challenges faced by workers, particularly in ANC-led municipalities, including instances of victimisation and mass dismissals. The Special CEC emphasised the importance of engaging with the ANC through COSATU to address these crucial concerns affecting our members.
Furthermore, the meeting reiterated the expectation that elected office bearers will adhere to and implement the union’s resolutions, including those related to political endorsements made by the Union or its federation, COSATU. This includes refraining from using Union resources or platforms to actively campaign against such resolutions.
Issued by SAMWU Secretariat
Dumisane Magagula
General Secretary
076 580 4029
Or
Nkhetheni Muthavhi
Deputy General Secretary
082 526 5224
Or
Papikie Mohale
National Media Officer
076 795 8670