For seven consecutive days, operations were completely shut down at the Pikitup Randburg Depot as casual workers went on strike, citing long-standing job insecurity and demanding permanent employment contracts.

However, on the seventh day, a breakthrough was reached as workers agreed to reopen the depot and allow services to resume, following management’s commitment to convene a board meeting on January 21 (Thursday) and provide formal feedback to workers on January 22 (Friday).

Read more: Casual workers shut down Pikitup Randburg Depot over undelivered promised permanent posts

A casual worker for six years, John Mokhethi confirmed that they agreed to work; however, they will shut down the depot if their demands are not met and the management fails to deliver the feedback.

“They told us that they meet and then on Thursday we will open, and also come to work. On Friday morning, we are expecting the feedback. What we expect from them is something written down explaining when they are giving us the appointment letters… We no longer want verbal agreements.”

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The standoff has placed a spotlight on the growing frustration of casual workers. The issue dates back three years, when the company hired permanent employees and the casual workers were overlooked.

In 2024, Pikitup made more permanent posts available. The casual workers applied for these permanent jobs but have still not been issued appointment letters, which led to the strike.

Randburg Sun reached out to Pikitup, and their response will be published once made available.

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