Relief for Pietermaritzburg as municipal strike suspended
Earlier on Friday, Samwu Msunduzi chairperson Brandon George confirmed that workers had been instructed to step back from the strike.
Msunduzi Municipality has welcomed the suspension of the municipal workers’ strike following what it described as constructive discussions between management and labour representatives, paving the way for employees to return to work and service recovery efforts to begin.
The municipality announced on Friday that the decision followed engagements at the Local Labour Forum and a subsequent South African Municipal Workers’ Union (Samwu) special general meeting, where members resolved to suspend the ongoing industrial action.
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Earlier on Friday, Samwu Msunduzi chairperson Brandon George confirmed that workers had been instructed to step back from the strike.
“Samwu collectively, in line with the mandate from its membership at this morning’s general meeting have decided to temporarily suspend strike action,” said George.
The strike, which disrupted municipal services across Pietermaritzburg for more than two weeks, resulted in refuse collection backlogs, electricity-related service interruptions and delays in other municipal operations.
In a statement, the municipality said striking employees were expected to return to work immediately.
Striking employees are expected to return to work, allowing the Municipality to immediately begin the process of restoring normal operations and accelerating service delivery recovery.
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The municipality acknowledged the impact the strike had on residents, businesses and visitors.
It also apologised to residents affected by the service interruptions.
“The Municipality extends its sincere apology to all residents who were affected during this period. We understand the frustration, inconvenience and hardship experienced by communities as a result of service interruptions, and we remain committed to rebuilding public confidence through decisive action and improved service delivery.”
According to the municipality, consensus was reached on a way forward, with labour and management committing to continued dialogue and co-operation on outstanding matters.
The municipality said both labour unions had committed to supporting recovery efforts and participating in clean-up campaigns scheduled to begin on Saturday.
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Its immediate priority would be tackling refuse backlogs, addressing service-related challenges and restoring municipal operations.
“While some delays and backlogs may remain due to the impact of the strike, municipal teams will work tirelessly to address these challenges and minimise further inconvenience to residents.”
The municipality said it would continue providing updates on service restoration, clean-up operations and recovery efforts through its official communication platforms.
