Workers have been on strike since May 16. The union’s Provincial Secretary, Thabang Tseuoa, says the strike continues because the Mangaung Metro Municipality has still not come to the table with a tangible offer. Tseuoa says they still maintain that workers in Mangaung should be paid accordingly and up to a level of metro municipalities. He refutes claims that workers on strike have been engaging in criminal activities, including cutting off power supply and theft of electricity cables within the municipal jurisdiction. Tseoua admits that they are aware of such allegations, however, maintains that their members are not involved.

“We are saying that whoever has proof that any municipal worker is involved in any criminality should bring it forth to the police. As far as we are concerned, our members are not involved. We deny such allegations subject to them being proven otherwise.”

He says the striking workers have closely been monitored by the police and their members are not in any way involved in cable theft or any illegal activities.

He says they are aware that there have been disruptions in the delivery of service, which has affected communities since the workers have gone on strike, but it is upon the municipality to come to the table.

The Freedom Front Plus in a statement said the ongoing strike has elements of criminality and should be declared illegal. They have also suggested that the salaries of participants be withheld.

OFM News/Katleho Morapela