South Africa: Further protests likely in Pretoria through late August amid ongoing municipal workers strike /update 1

Event

Further protests are likely in Pretoria (Tshwane) through at least late August due to an ongoing strike by members of the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU). On Aug. 18, the strike received the support of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), South Africa's largest trade union. The strike began late July as workers are demanding a salary increase of at least 3.5 percent after Pretoria's municipal government announced there would be no salary increases for the current fiscal year, among other issues. The municipality has received an interdict from the Braamfontein Labour Court declaring the strike illegal and unprotected, and is seeking further criminal charges against instigators.

Violence has regularly occurred near Tshwane House, the seat of municipal government, and has led to the reported arrest of 15 protesters as of mid-August. At least 100 workers have been dismissed for their role in the strike. Disruptions to public services have resulted in backlogs for water infrastructure maintenance, electricity distribution, and waste collection.

Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any protest that materialize, especially near Pretoria's municipal building and the Union Buildings. Clashes between police and protesters are possible if demonstrators ignore official orders to disperse, or engage in acts of public violence. Municipal employee absenteeism could prompt public service delays.

Advice

Plan accordingly for transport and service delivery disruptions. Heed the instructions of officials. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Reconfirm administrative appointments.