×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

City workers support strike call

MILITANT: Samwu members prepare for their Joburg strike. 20/05/09. Pic. Antonio Muchave. © Sowetan.
MILITANT: Samwu members prepare for their Joburg strike. 20/05/09. Pic. Antonio Muchave. © Sowetan.

Workers from all entities of the City of Johannesburg have put their weight behind the strike earmarked for Thursday in support of the Metrobus drivers.

Yesterday, workers told Sowetan at the Beyers Naude Square that they were joining the strike because "the City pays us peanuts".

"I've been a qualified nurse for 20 years but my gross salary is still R13962 a month," said Thembeka Ndlovu.

Her call was echoed by a Metro police officer who identified herself as Lebo. "Maybe the City will take us seriously this time. I have been an officer for five years but I still earn less than R10000 a month."

Yinese Tlou, a general worker at Pikitup, said the strike by Samwu was long overdue. "I've been working for Pikitup for 38 years but I'm still paid less than R3000 a month," said Tlou, 61.

Tlou is a married man with five children and three grandchildren. "A lot of people found me working there, but they are paid better than me," said Tlou.

Levi Ramasiga, an admin clerk at the Johannesburg Roads Agency, said: "I have worked for the City for more than 20 years, yet I still get R6000 a month."

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.