Update – Strike action intensifies at local municipality
At this point it is unclear what has enraged the striking workers to resort to burning tyres
About an hour ago tyres were set ablaze in front of the municipal building.
Earlier today Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) employees together with related programme employees launched strike action, driving their fellow co-workers in various other departments out of the building.
The area is now heavily guarded by police as well as security guards from a private security company. At this point it is unclear what has raged the striking workers to resort to burning tires.
Clouds of black smoke hung in the air while some municipal workers shouted, “Jabulile did this, she did it and she will burn the building down too.”
The mayor, Jabulile Membrey Mbele was seen addressing management of a private security a short distance away from the municipal building.
Passers-by said:
“I don’t understand why these workers would not let new employees be appointed when they can’t do what they instructed to anyway, our town is a mess yet they get paid.”
“The Fire Department was informed of the fire but did not respond to the report to extinguish the blaze,” said an eyewitness.
