Today, May 9, marks the last day for the suspended 389 EMPD to respond to the pre-dismissal notices issued by the City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) management.
The CoE expects them to, in response to the pre-dismissal notices issued on May 5, submit their written representations on why they should not be fired for their participation in prohibited strike actions.
On March 19, hundreds of EMPD members from across the city participated in a protest, bringing to a standstill key routes, including those that lead to OR Tambo International Airport, a national key point.
City’s response
During a press briefing on May 8, the Ekurhuleni Mayor, Doctor Xhakaza, updated the media on the recent events surrounding the EMPD’s unlawful strike action and the city’s response to these incidents.
He pointed out that apart from blockading roads, the protesters also used city-issued vehicles, firearms, and uniforms during the illegal protest, contravening their duties as essential service providers.
Upholding the principles of law
Xhakaza said they did not take lightly the decision to issue the implicated members with pre-dismissal letters. It was necessary to uphold the principles of law, discipline, and public safety.
“EMPD officers are classified under essential services and are prohibited by law from engaging in industrial action. Therefore, involvement in the blockade violated the municipal regulations and the Labour Relations Act.”
The mayor explained that this is not a blanket dismissal, as they will review each case individually, with due consideration given to remorse and the facts presented in each representation.
“The pre-dismissal process allows each officer the opportunity to submit written representations, which the city agreed to extend until May 9, following engagements with SAMWU.
Intimidation
“The city is aware of ongoing threats and intimidation directed at EMPD officers who continue to report for duty. This is unacceptable, and we are dealing with this matter with the seriousness it deserves.
“The SAPS and the Hawks are collaborating with the city during this ongoing investigation.
“The city warns those engaging in such conduct; intimidation will not be tolerated, and legal action will follow.”
Overtime and salary disputes
The mayor said the city has noted concerns raised by SAMWU around the reduction of overtime for EMPD officers. It is important to clarify that overtime is not a right, but a privilege granted based on operational necessity and performance outcomes.
He stated that if crime statistics are not showing a significant downward trend, it raises questions about the justification for ongoing overtime expenditure.
The mayor announced the city will intensify its focus on performance-driven deployment to ensure the effective and responsible spending of taxpayer funds.
Best-compensated
“EMPD officers are among the best-compensated law enforcement officials when benchmarked against other metropolitan police departments, and even the SAPS.
“Recently, the City of Tshwane experienced a strike where officers demanded their salaries to be aligned with the EMPD, highlighting the competitive compensation packages in Ekurhuleni.
“Unlike other municipalities, the CoE has consistently honoured all collective agreement increases and overtime payments, whereas cities like Tshwane have not implemented these increases for over two years.
“This context is crucial in understanding the city’s commitment to fair labour practices while maintaining accountability and financial sustainability.”
Xhakaza reiterated the city’s commitment to ensure value for money, especially in critical areas such as law enforcement.
Way forward
According to the mayor, a critical component of the forward strategy is the planned transition of EMPD operations to a shift system, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and service delivery across the city.
“There is an item within the Local Labour Forum (LLF) that should be able to address longstanding issues around salary adjustments, night shift allowances, and standby allowances, ensuring these matters are resolved effectively.
“We are also working closely with the SAPS under our existing memorandum of understanding and local community security organisations, such as CPFs and private security, to ensure there is no disruption in policing services across Ekurhuleni during this period.
“I want to assure the people of Ekurhuleni we will maintain law and order and will continue to act decisively against any actions that threaten the safety and well-being of our communities.”
Xhakaza pointed out that the city was preparing to deploy approximately 1 500 traffic wardens and newly trained candidates currently completing their training at the EMPD Academy.
Also Read: #EMPDstrike: Officers issued with pre-dismissal letters over ‘illegal’ strike
