Tshwane’s R1bn salary backpay: Opposition warns of service delivery risks

OPPOSITION parties in Tshwane have warned that the multiparty coalition governments decision to pay an outstanding 3.5% salary increase stemming from the 2021 wage agreement, including backdated salaries amounting to over R1 billion to at least 21 000 workers, might compromise service delivery.

- RAPULA MOATSHE

The criticism came despite confidence expressed by Tshwane Mayor Nasiphi Moya that the “settlement has been structured within a funded budget that continues to prioritise electricity stability, water security, and service delivery”.

“We are honouring our obligations to workers while strengthening the services residents depend on,’ Moya said.

DA mayoral candidate Cilliers Brink, however, cautioned that the decision would have negative effects on frontline services, resulting in prolonged power outages and more water outages.

“When I was the mayor I stood up and said the residents could not afford these increases. In 2023 we won a Labour Court case that confirmed that if a municipality can not pay increases it should not be forced,’ he said.

Brink added that the previous DA-led administration took a tough stance in the face of a violent strike, understanding the difficult decision’s implications.