DA-led coaltion no-show at Tshwane council meeting to discuss strike

The multi-party coalition government boycotted the meeting that was meant to debate the on-going municipal workers' strike in the city.

Workers affiliated to the South African Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) downed tools last month over non-payment of salary increases.

The illegal strike has led to an interruption in the delivery of services in the city, including electricity outage repairs, water restoration, and refuse removal.

Ndzwanana believes the DA'a behaviour merely serves to aggravate the situation.

"The lack of attendance at today’s meeting as a sign of disrespect to both the employees and residents of the City of Tshwane who are severely affected by the lack of services due to the on-going situation in the city," Ndzwanana said. 

"I implore the multi-party coalition to come forth and work together with the other parties in Council, for us to find a lasting solution to bring stability back to the City of Tshwane." 

The ANC chief whip Aaron Maluleka says they stand in solidarity with the striking workers.

"We must find ourselves sitting as council, taking decision on what should happen. It can't be that everyday we see the video of the mayor announcing that they have dismissed workers. This has led to implosion of services in the city."

At the same time, the EFF accused Mayor Cilliers Brink as arrogant.

"This sweet talk towards this government is the one that makes Brink to be arrogant. Who does the city manager reports to? He caucused with Brink that they are not coming, why don't we confront him. He is part of politics in the city."

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