eMBALENHLE – Messages of condolence, support and tribute continued to pour in to the Ngcobo family following the death of Mr Piet Ngcobo.
Mr Ngcobo, an employee of Govan Mbeki Municipality, was electrocuted while he was working on installing a transformer in Extension 22, eMbalenhle, on Tuesday, 23 June.
Mr Felani Mndebele, municipal manager, conveyed his condolences on Wednesday, 24 June when he addressed Mr Ngcobo’s colleagues who downed their tools due to safety concerns.
The upset workers ambushed Mr Mndebele and demanded an urgent meeting with him.
Mr Mndebele was not happy with this and words were exchanged until both parties met a mutual ground.
The workers clarified that they ambushed Mr Mndebele, because he neither showed concern nor did he address the employees the same day Mr Ngcobo died.
Also read: Municipal official dies while installing transformer in eMbalenhle
The workers told Mndebele that they are concerned for their safety, as pressure from the community is daily mounting up.
They claimed to be daily faced with intimidation from angry residents who are demanding service delivery.
Workers said they are also disturbed by political interference.
They alleged that sometimes politicians mobilize residents to intimidate them.
They also complained about equipment, protective clothing (PPE) and a shortage of staff.
Mr Mndebele promised to attend to their grievances.
“I will be meeting with the South African National Defence Force to request them to ensure that you are safe whenever you are doing you job.
“Do not work without proper PPE and do not take instructions from politicians.”
The workers told him that they will not return to work until their demands are met.
The unions intend to meet so that they can decide a way forward.
Mr Mndebele and the delegation from the municipality will visit Mr Ngcobo’s family today.
Watch the video here:
