South Africa: Further municipal workers' protests likely in Pretoria through mid-October amid ongoing strike /update 4

Further protests likely in Pretoria, South Africa, through mid-October amid an ongoing municipal workers' strike. Bus transport suspended.

Event

Further protests linked to an ongoing strike by members of the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) are likely in Pretoria (Tshwane) through mid-October. As of Oct. 3, the far-left opposition party Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has offered its support to dismissed civil servants and, following a protest on Sept. 28, has threatened additional demonstrations. The municipality has called for increased police presence, has reportedly dismissed at least 120 employees, and laid criminal charges against at least 34 individuals for damages incurred during the protests.

Disruptions to public services have resulted in water infrastructure maintenance, electricity distribution, and waste collection backlogs. The Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality has extended the citywide suspension of its A Re Yeng and Tshwane Bus services after at least five municipal vehicles were set on fire on Sept. 13, and two additional buses were attacked on Sept. 29.

Increased demand for other means of transport, including buses and private hire vehicles, is likely until buses resume operating. Further violence targeting other public services and transport remains possible. Heightened security and localized transport disruptions are likely near any protest that materializes, especially near Pretoria's municipal building, the Union Buildings, and the Marabastad market area. 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.

Context

The strike began on July 26 following the announcement by the local government that there would be no salary increases due to budgetary constraints. Workers are demanding a salary increase of at least 5.4 percent. The strike received the support of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU), South Africa's largest trade union. The South African Local Bargaining Council (SALGBC) has ordered the municipality to honor the salary increase agreement signed in 2021, while the Braamfontein Labor Court has declared the strike unprotected. The strike has also fractured the governing coalition led by the Democratic Alliance (DA) and ActionSA, raising the possibility of an upcoming vote of no confidence against the incumbent Mayor.

Violence has regularly occurred near Tshwane House, the seat of municipal government. Reports suggest that several municipal vehicles were burned by protestors, although SAMWU has denied any involvement.

Advice

Plan accordingly for transport and service delivery disruptions. Plan for increased employee absenteeism. Allow extra time to reach destinations, and seek alternative of transport if necessary. Reconfirm the status of road routes before departure. Reconfirm administrative appointments. Avoid all protests.