South Africa: Unionized public sector workers to strike and protest nationwide, Nov. 22 /update 4

Event

Unionized public sector workers plan to strike nationwide, Nov. 22. The call to strike follows a collapse of wage negotiations between authorities and trade unions. Several participating unions have announced plans to protest in all provinces. Some of the most prominent gatherings have been listed below.

• Bloemfontein: March from Mahungra Carwash to the Department of Treasury from 09:00.

• Cape Town: March from Hanover Street to Parliament (now based at Cape Town City Hall) from 09:00.

• Durban: March from King Dinuzulu Park to Marine Building via Dr. Pixley Ka Seme Street. The start time is unclear.

• Mkhuhlu: March from Mkhuhlu Plaza to Matkiwana Hospital from 09:00.

• Pretoria: March from Burgers Park to the National Treasury from 10:00.

Unions have also threatened to continue pickets at ports, hospitals and other government institutions until wage demands are met.

Heightened security is likely near all protest locations. Clashes between demonstrators and police are possible if striking workers are overly disruptive or engage in acts of public violence. Disruptions to state operations are likely. Various transport, medical, and administrative offices may be affected on the day.

Advice

Avoid all protests. Plan for road travel delays near gathering sites. Reconfirm appointments at state institutions. Reconfirm transport arrangements Nov. 22 as a precaution.