City of Tshwane beginning to cripple as Rihati Utility members protest against Municipality


By Tshegofatso Makola

Following weeks of political turmoil in the City of Tshwane, ordinary civilians and contracted workers are beginning to suffer with some complaining that they have not been paid. The Joburg Post caught up with workers of Rihati Meter Readers, who decided to picket outside of Tshwane House today.

Members of Rihati Meter Readers have expressed that they have not been paid for the past six months, following what they have described as excuses from the municipality.

Upon arrival to Tshwane House this morning, workers were united in song as the gates were locked to prevent them from entering the premises. After having waited for hours to be addressed, the gates were eventually opened.

Speaking on the Utility's concerns, spokesperson of Rihati Meter Readers, Mathapelo Mogoboya expressed that it was unfair that the City was able to use its political issues to justify why they were not being paid, adding that workers have been working accordingly.

"We have families to feed. We have lives to live. We have been doing our jobs [and] have exceptional work ethic. We're making the City a lot of money, but they do not want to give us the money." -Mathapelo Mogoboya

Mogoboya further added that they would picket until they got answers regarding when they would be paid.

Meanwhile, the Tshwane Council is set to meet in what will see a motion of no-confidence tabled against the newly elected Speaker, Mncedi Mdzwanana. Mdzwanana, who has barely been in office for a month has received quite some criticism from the DA-led coalition in how he has failed to ensure that the Executive Mayor is elected.

Following what has been weeks of politicking, the City is still without a mayor and with panic around the passing of the City's Adjustment Budget now eased, with the extension from Provincial Treasury, one questions when the new mayor will be elected.

This is a developing story. More updates to follow.

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