Lekwa Municipality’ security officers on ‘go slow’

Security officers employed by a private security service provider contracted by the Lekwa Local Municipality have embarked on a go-slow strike over alleged unpaid salaries.

According to the officers, the protest action began on May 15 after they discovered that their salaries had not been paid.

They claim that attempts to contact their employer were unsuccessful as her cellphone was unavailable.

The officers further alleged that the municipality informed them that payments to the service provider are made every month.

“We are tired now. Each month, we have to fight before we get our salaries, though we work tirelessly in safeguarding municipal property.

“Sometimes when we fight for our money, we get victimised or dismissed from work. Our children are hungry and we need to pay our accounts.”

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“The municipality is aware of our frustrations. We support the municipality’s plans to insource the service, maybe then we will be paid on time,” said one of the security officers.

The protesting officers gathered outside the municipal town hall, saying they will return to work only once their outstanding salaries are paid.

Lekwa Municipality spokesperson, Lubabalo Mnjenge, said the municipality is aware of the officers’ challenges regarding unpaid salaries and has planned an engagement with the service provider.

Mnjenge said while the officers are still on a go-slow, they have a responsibility to intervene in the best interest of municipal properties and assets.

He said the municipality has engaged both internal and external law enforcement agencies to monitor and patrol municipal properties while discussions between the two parties continue.

Mnjenge added that the municipality will review both the contract and the service level agreement of the service provider.

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