eThekwini strike: Workers get bail, while Phoenix residents protest
Residents have been without power and water for days due to the municipal strike, which saw thousands of eThekwini employees down tools.
The result of an eThekwini municipal worker strike, where thousands downed tools. On Tuesday, Phoenix residents took to the streets to express their frustration. Pictures: Narrottam Das/Facebook; Ground Z3ro Search & Rescue/Facebook
DURBAN & JOHANNESBURG - Thirteen eThekwini municipal workers arrested last month over an ongoing industrial action, have been granted R2,000 bail each.
The group appeared for a second time in the Durban Magistrates Court on Wednesday, facing charges including public violence and damaging essential infrastructure.
The strike, which was labelled illegal, was over a call for increased wages for workers in the metro.
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National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) Spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara said the matter would return to court on 10 May for further investigation.
“The charges relate to an incident that occurred on 04 March 2024, where they allegedly blocked the road with rocks and rubbish and burned tyres and bins. The state is also alleging that they damaged municipal bins and Durban Solid Waste (DSW) fencing,” added Ramkisson-Kara.
STAFF DISCIPLINED
The eThekwini municipality instituted disciplinary action, including dismissals, for almost 2,000 staff members who participated in the illegal strike.
The KZN metro has seen various demonstrations by workers since the 27th of February, leading to the disruption of, among others, public infrastructure.
Senior municipal officials were also reportedly attacked by the aggrieved workers during the strike.
eThekwini Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda briefed the media at the Durban City Hall on Wednesday afternoon, providing an update on a recovery plan.
“To date, 81 employees are on precautionary suspension for misconduct committed during the illegal strike, while 1,781 employees have been given notices of misconduct, and 88 employees have been dismissed for their participation.”
Kaunda added that some of them would soon face disciplinary action.
“Disciplinary hearings for the 81 suspended employees have been scheduled for the following dates: 13th, 14th, 15th, and the 18th of March 2024.”
PHOENIX RESIDENTS PROTEST
Meanwhile, hundreds of angry residents from parts of Phoenix and surrounding areas west of Durban took to the streets on Wednesday morning, demanding restoration of water and electricity.
Residents have been without power and water for days due to the municipal strike, which saw thousands of eThekwini employees down tools.
Metro Police Spokesperson Boysie Zungu said chaos erupted on Tuesday night in Westham, Phoenix, with vehicles being stoned.
“Approximately 300 people blocked off roadways and burned fires. POP [Public Order Police] used force to remove the crowd and stabilise the area. The roadway is open now and traffic is flowing. Police officers are still in the area to ensure there is no other disturbance.”