Kaya 959 News
The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) moves ahead with its planned nationwide stay away over ongoing corruption, neoliberalism, and austerity measures.
Several pickets across the country are expected to get underway ahead of the budget speech later today.
In reaction to yesterday’s historical unemployment figures, the federation says a strong statement has to be made about the current situation.
Time for action
The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa urges all workers to participate in the various planned demonstrations across the country today.
The union has sought to clarify that the national stay away being organized by SAFTU today is a protected strike under Section 77.
This means that every worker, regardless of union affiliation, whether organized or unorganized, has a right to go on strike.
In Gauteng, NUMSA members will be marching to ArcelorMittal in Vanderbijlpark to protest against poor health and safety conditions.
The bold move comes after three workers died at the plant last week following an explosion.
NUMSA spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi Majola:
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Widespread disruptions expected due to nationwide strikes Natasha
Unions want their voices heard
The Johannesburg metro police department has plans to ensure that the COVID-19 regulations are not broken and no violence occurs.
Wayne Minaar speaks for the department:
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Widespread disruptions expected due to nationwide strikes Natasha
SAFTU wants government to commit to fixing the challenges being faced at all hospitals across the country.
The union says the issues of overcrowding at hospitals have been there for years, even before the COVID-19 pandemic.
The organization says this is why hospitals are part of the targeted places for demonstrations taking place today.
Several unions have pledged their support for today’s demonstrations.
SAFTU’s Zwelinzima Vavi spoke to the Kaya Breakfast team this morning:
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Widespread disruptions expected due to nationwide strikes Natasha



