WATCH: Ekurhuleni municipal operations disrupted as protesters block civic centre entrances

The City of Ekurhuleni’s operations have been severely disrupted after protesters, led by the Municipal Employees and Civil Servants Union (MECSU), cordoned off both entrances and exits to the municipal offices.

The strike, now entering its second day, stems from union demands to end the outsourcing of services, including security, and to convert contract workers into permanent employees.

Protesters initially gathered outside the civic centre but have since moved to block both gates, halting operations and preventing staff and visitors from entering or leaving the premises.

WATH HERE AS THE PROTEST UNFOLDS:

@bedfordview.edenv

Municipal services in Ekurhuleni remain disrupted for a second day as MECSU-led protesters demand the mayor address their grievances over outsourcing and job security.#EkurhuleniProtest #MECSUStrike #MunicipalServices #JobSecuritySA #OutsourcingDebate

♬ original sound – Bedfordview Edenvale News –

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MECSU secretary Vukile Mlungwana said the strike would continue until city officials, including the mayor, address their concerns directly.

“We will not stand down until our voices are heard and our issues are taken seriously,” he said.

As of Friday afternoon, no city officials had engaged with the workers, and negotiations had yet to begin.

@bedfordview.edenv

Municipal services in Ekurhuleni remain disrupted for a second day as MECSU-led protesters demand the mayor address their grievances over outsourcing and job security.#EkurhuleniProtest #MECSUStrike #MunicipalServices #JobSecuritySA #OutsourcingDebate

♬ original sound – Bedfordview Edenvale News

Motorists and pedestrians in the area have been urged to exercise caution as the situation remains tense and fluid. City representatives said efforts are underway to resolve the dispute and restore normal operations.