Municipal manager threatens to fire striking staff

Striking municipal workers were threatened with their jobs yesterday afternoon when acting municipal manager, Bongiwe Mnikathi, finally took a stand and issued a written ultimatum.

After issuing the ultimatum, Ms Mnikathi, requested SAPS to escort her from her office as workers expressed their disapproval.

The ultimatum warned protestors, who had downed tools since Thursday last week that, “such unlawful industrial action constitutes serious misconduct, which may warrant the summary dismissal of those participating.”

Ms Mnikathi has accused the protestors of violence, locking the municipal premises, intimidation, threats of extreme violence toward staff and members of the public, and preventing staff and public from entering and exiting the municipal buildings.

She went on to demand that all employees return to work. Those that do not may be subject to legal action and liable for damages.

This matter was later discussed in closed council meeting this afternoon. Afterward, councillors they were united in the belief that action needed to be taken and that they believed this strike would only be brought to an end once the administration (the municipal manager and directors) acted decisively and firmly.