SANDF on standby as Nehawu strike enters week two


By Tshegofatso Makola

Following the wage increase strike by the National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union (Nehawu), which saw service halted in various sectors, the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has been deployed to one of the heavily affected hospitals, Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital.

Nehawu has entered week two of its strike for a 10% wage increase. This is following what has been a week of stay-aways and very little compromise by the government on their demands.

Following the government’s firm decision to offer only a 4.7% increase, the union was displeased, calling it an insult. Nehawu has since expressed its intention to continue its strike this week. 

With the strike having resumed this morning, the SANDF were stationed outside Thelle Mogoerane hospital, which has since been described as one of the hardest hit by the current strike.

Last week, work was halted at this hospital, with staff being barred from entering the premises by Nehawu-affiliated demonstrators.

Meanwhile, the Health Minister, Joe Phaahla is set to visit the hospital, to determine the extent that it has been affected by the strike.

Last week, Phaahla revealed that at least 4 people had died and spoke on how the strike contributed to this. 

Phaahla’s statement received criticism from the Union, accusing him of pushing a political agenda. 

The strike is currently underway, with all administration departments set to come to a halt today.

This is a developing story. More updates to follow.

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Nehawu

wage increase

Joe Phaahla

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