The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) in the Free State has made a bold pledge to throw its full weight behind the South African Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) in their ongoing struggles against Matjhabeng officials.

Members of SAMWU in the embattled Welkom-based municipality have been embroiled in a protracted dispute with officials over a range of grievances, including calls for Mayor Thanduxolo Khalipha to resign after several allegations were made against him, such as mismanagement of municipal resources and funds.

‘Impasse between workers and municipal authorities has persisted’

Despite repeated attempts at negotiations, the impasse between workers and municipal authorities has persisted, leading to growing frustration and discontent amongst workers.

In a resolute stance, Cosatu Provincial Secretary Monyatso Mahlatsi said the union will use all its resources to back Samwu members who have now entered the fourth week of protected strike action to demonstrate a stance against the treatment they have been receiving from the employer.

Workers of the Goldfields municipality seem like they won’t be backing down anytime soon despite the recent interdict against the strike.

He called upon all unions to engage with their members and release their shop stewards in and around Welkom to attend and support Samwu led a march on Friday (23/2) starting at 09:00 at Eriksen Circle, opposite the Sassa offices.

“We implore all affiliates to pull our available resources to make sure we do not lose this battle. When the dust has settled workers should emerge victorious and those who believe in harassing and undermining workers and Cosatu should have learned a permanent lesson,” said Mahlatsi.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg