The ANC's IPC spokesperson, Oupa Khoabane, tells OFM News in Batho, where a large group of workers have gathered, that only the people can determine meaningful policies. He says in relation to the shutdown, the ANC is of the view that workers are raising pertinent issues that have an impact on the government. Khoabane says this is how the people are able to shape the policies and understand the impact the policies have on the society. Cosatu-affiliated members, among others, are expected to march to OR Tambo House where Premier Sisi Ntombela's offices are. They will deliver a memorandum on issues such as high fuel prices, the energy crisis, the escalating unemployment rate, and poverty.

"The interaction of different sectors is very important to decide on key governance issues as they impact on policies and on the lives of ordinary people. Constant interaction between the workers and the ANC is important so that we can understand whether our policies have the intended impact on our society," Khoabane adds.

Workers from the tripartite alliance and the National Health and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu), the South Africa Municipal Workers Union (Samwu), the South African Democratic Teachers Union (Sadtu), and the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (Denosa), who earlier gathered in Batho, have now started to march.

Workers started gathering this morning at around 08:00 in their different union regalia and have been singing and chanting struggle songs.

Meanwhile, the Government has since cautioned those who will be participating in today's protest march, that a "no work no pay" policy will be instituted.

OFM News