27 Jan 2019 | 05:35 PM UTC
Eswatini: Nationwide strike planned January 28
Various labor unions, including teachers and public servants, plan nationwide strike on January 28; associated protests expected in major cities
Event
The Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) and other labor unions, including civil servants, are planning to hold a nationwide strike on Monday, January 28. Associated protests are expected to be held in the cities of Mbabane, Manzini, Nhlangano, Siteki, Pigg’s Peak, Mankayane, Hlathikhulu, and Madlangempisi; demonstrations are also possible in other urban areas. Heightened security measures and traffic disruptions are expected around protest sites. Associated commercial disruptions are also possible.
Context
Teachers and civil servants are demanding the government open negotiations for salary cost-of-living adjustments. However, the government has reportedly said that there are not enough funds to increase salaries for workers.
Advice
Individuals in Eswatini, particularly in the abovementioned cities, are advised to monitor the situation and avoid all protests as a precaution.
