The workers who last week gathered outside the Centlec building in Bloemfontein demanded that there be an improvement of working conditions, the removal of a heap of asbestos material on the premises, an end to nepotism and tender fraud, as well as the permanent employment of workers currently in acting positions. The workers further called for the removal of the utility’s Chief Executive Officer, Andries Mgoqi, on allegations that he has run the entity into a state of disarray and ignores their concerns. In the memorandum of demands received by the Deputy Mayor, Lebohang Masoetsa, the workers demanded that their grievances be addressed within a period of 48-hours, which lapses today, October the 22nd.

One of the employees, Kgosietsile Motlhale, told OFM News they have received a letter from the deputy mayor, requesting an extension to deal with their issues, but have resorted to down tools once again because this is not the first time they receive such a response. Furthermore, Masoetsa’s response does not paint a clear picture as to when he will attend to their issues.

He adds that workers’ concerns over the heap of asbestos material that lies uncovered at their Bloemfontein offices remain unresolved. He says employees are concerned that the open heap will have a negative impact on their health and that their calls to have the heap removed, had fallen on deaf ears.

Meanwhile, Centlec spokesperson, Lele Mamatu, is yet to respond to OFM News’ set of questions.

OFM News