Youth voices call for accountability in Rosebank
Young activists and students gathered outside Cartrack's offices in Rosebank, picketing over allegations surrounding an employee's death ahead of Youth Day.
South African youth gathered outside Cartrack’s offices in Rosebank on June 11, demanding accountability after the death of employee Gcina Dhladhla, and urging young people to speak out against alleged workplace injustices.
The picket, held days before Youth Day, attracted community activists, youth leaders, students who claimed that young South Africans should play a more active role in addressing challenges affecting workers, and their communities.
The action is intended at seeking justice for Dhladhla, while honouring the legacy of the youth of 1976, encouraging young people to become active citizens and speak up when they believe wrong doing has occurred.
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Vusi Mlambo, one of the youth leaders at the picket, said he urges young people to not keep quiet.
“I think it is very important for the youth to rise up at this moment. The youth of 1976 took matters into their own hands and that is what we need to do as the youth of today.”
He added that the picket was part of a movement to encourage young workers to seek help when they feel like their rights are violated in the workplace.
Student representative council member Banele Zulu, from the University of Johannesburg’s Soweto Campus, said young people had a responsibility to stand together during times like these. “As young people, we are here to support our fellow South African who lost her life.”
Meanwhile, the Dhladhla family, along with Cartrack, released a joint statement.
Also read: Answers sought for allegations surrounding Cartrack employee death
“We’d like to thank Cartrack management for their co-operation,” family representative Thamsanqa Mbuli said, “allowing an organic first discussion that was open and transparent. Our intended objective of clarifying the sequence of events leading up to our beloved daughter, sister, and colleague passing was achieved. This is one of many other important steps in the healing process for the family.”
While in communication with the family, Cartrack SA CEO Joshua Victor expressed his condolences.
“Our colleague was a valued member of our team and this loss has been deeply felt across the organisation.
We remain deeply committed to supporting the family, co-operating fully with law enforcement and the department of labour, and ensuring that every fact is uncovered and established through the appropriate processes.”
During the picket, a memorandum outlining concerns was handed over, received by the company CEO.
The Dhladhla family and Cartrack will continue working together as investigations proceed.
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