Samwu Marches On Tshwane House Over 2021 Worker Dismissals

The streets of Pretoria are set to echo with the voices of municipal workers today as the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (Samwu) stages a march to Tshwane House. Their demand is simple yet deeply personal — bring back the workers who were dismissed in 2021.

A Dispute That Never Found Closure

The story dates back to a turbulent period in 2021 when workers and the City of Tshwane clashed over a salary increase agreement. Samwu and other unions had secured a deal promising municipal workers a 3.5% pay rise in 2021 and a further 5.4% in 2023.

But instead of honouring that commitment, the city sought an exemption from the bargaining council to avoid paying the increases. The application failed, yet the fallout saw dozens of workers dismissed — a move unions labelled as both punitive and unfair.

New Leadership, Old Wounds

Fast forward to 2025, and Tshwane’s political leadership has changed. The DA-led administration has been replaced by a new coalition, giving Samwu fresh hope. According to regional chairperson Lehlohonolo Maphatsoe, discussions have been ongoing with political leaders to resolve the matter.

“We started political intervention talks as soon as the new administration came in,” Maphatsoe says. “We’ve spoken to all coalition partners and there’s broad agreement in principle. But the sticking point is when the workers will actually be reinstated.”

Marching For Justice

Today’s march is not just about back pay or reinstatement dates — it’s about dignity and accountability. Many of the dismissed workers have been without stable income for nearly four years, a reality that has left deep scars on families and communities.

Social media posts from union members show placards reading “Justice Delayed Is Justice Denied” and “Our Families Suffer Too Long,” reflecting growing impatience with political indecision.

Will The City Listen This Time?

The march, which is legally protected, is expected to bring hundreds to Tshwane House. Samwu is banking on visible public pressure to push the city’s leadership into swift action.

Source:Sabc News

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com