Shops at Savannah Mall close after demonstration by EFF
The demonstration was over an alleged labour dispute and the party had been called by some of the mall's cleaning staff who say their employee rights have been neglected for years.
POLOKWANE – Savannah Mall ceased operations for the day for safety reasons following a demonstration by the EFF earlier today.
Reports of shops at the mall closing their doors surfaced at 13:00 after members of the EFF arrived abruptly around 10:00 calling for the attention of mall management.
The demonstration was over an alleged labour dispute and the party had been called by some of the mall’s cleaning staff who say their employee rights have been neglected for years.
Some employees told the party that they do not get pay slips, while others allegedly work without contracts, according to EFF regional chairperson, Molatelo Mahladisa.
Party members from the Capricorn region have in the past weeks visited the mall requesting similar attention and at one point, confronted some store managers for evidence regarding the plight of these workers.
However, one store manager told the Polokwane Observer that she directed them to mall management as questions relating to cleaners were not at her prerogative to answer.
A mall management representative confirmed the demonstration did take place and that party members were at the mall discussing an “internal matter” that is not up for discussion outside the confines of Savannah Mall.
The representative added that the party did not cause any disruptions.
The EFF said a response by mall management is expected soon.
