Thousands of members of the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) will join transport union South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) in downing tools nationally.
More than 15 bus companies have indicated that they will go on strike on Wednesday, forcing thousands of commuters to seek alternative transport.
Numsa, the largest metalworkers union with more than 300 000 are in a wage negotiation deadlocked since last week. Workers are demanding a 12% salary increase while employers are offering a 7% increase across the board.
Numsa General Secretary, Irvin Jim says, “We’re demanding 12 %. We’re not moving on their 7% they’ve put on the table. We are willing to negotiate to ensure that employers move from their position, to resolve any impasse will require parties to move from their position. We are embarking on this strike as a last resort.”
About 18 000 bus drivers affiliated to Satawu in KwaZulu Natal have joined the nationwide strike over salaries.
According to KwaZulu Natal Satawu Secretary Edgar Mbina their drivers are not operating in areas such as Durban, Vryheid, Richards Bay and Newcastle.
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