Their demand comes at a time when the utility is unable to produce enough electricity to fulfil the requirements of the whole nation, leading to widespread power outages.

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) demands that all employees receive the same raise in addition to improvements in housing and other benefit allowances.

In 2022, the Department of Labour and Eskom reached an agreement on a one-year contract after violent demonstrations that prevented some employees from appearing for duty and caused power shortages to reach an all-time high.

Legally, Eskom employees are prohibited from striking since the provision of power is seen as a necessary service.

OFM News