The South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) in the South Coast Region elected its new leadership at a congress at St Martin De Porres School hall.
Musa Sima was elected as the new chairperson, Vuyokazi Tshazi as deputy chairperson, Ntombifuthi Mzotho remains as secretary, Siyabonga Gumbi is the deputy secretary, and Winnie Ngcobo is the treasurer.
The regional structure is made up of 10 municipalities: Ugu District, Ray Nkonyeni, Umzumbe, Umdoni, Umuziwabantu, Harry Gwala, Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Greater Kokstad, Ubuhlebezwe and Umzimkulu.
The first deputy president, Mluleki Mbhele, said that the congress is not only about elections but it’s also about assessments – the municipalities have to report back about the five-year term they had served.
“For example, in Ugu District, more than 100 workers were fired and then re-instated, which was a huge achievement, so we discuss such matters.”
Also, Mbhele mentioned the workers’ protest for several months at Ray Nkonyeni before an agreement was reached. He said although they have not finalised it, they are hoping to close this chapter soon.
The union is currently assisting workers in Harry Gwala Municipality with various issues.
“One common challenge that all these municipalities are facing is the grading issue. Some of our resolutions revolved around that.”
SAMWU’s regional secretary, Ntombifuthi Mzotho, said their role is to make sure that the employer follows the set rules.
“As a union, we have to make sure that the employer abides by the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, Labour Relations Act, and Conditions of Service.”
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