In a letter written to the South African Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) and the Independent Municipal & Allied Trade Union (Imatu), the Municipal Manager, Advocate Bheki Khenisa, states that the illegally striking workers have 48 hours to resume their duties.

If they fail to do so, they will face immediate dismissal.

Workers embarked on an illegal strike two months ago, leaving the town in dire straits.

Since workers downed tools, the town is full of rubbish, and potholes have been unattended.

Residents in need of the fire department have been left high and dry. Ratepayers had to dispose of their waste, and others have resorted to violating municipal bylaws by littering.

Striking workers have also vandalised municipal infrastructure.

The workers have denied every offer the municipality has put on the table.

During negotiations, the municipality told workers that it would write to the bargaining council to review their salary grading.

In the meantime, striking workers would be expected to return to work, but workers have refused this proposal.

Workers are demanding a pay hike, with 36-months back pay, and also want to be upgraded from Level 4 to Level 5. They initially wanted to be upgraded to level 6.