Workers' union slams councillors' perks hike

The SA Municipal Workers Union (Samwu) has called out City of Tshwane councillors for voting to increase their salaries, while workers still suffer.

- Marizka Coetzer

All members of council, except one, voted in favour of a motion to increase their salaries and benefits.

Samwu Tshwane regional secretary Donald Monakhisi said they were outraged by the city's decision to grant councillors a 5% increase, backdated to 2024, while refusing workers' demand of 3.5% and 5.4% wage increase.

"The resolution exposes the hypocrisy and blatant disregard for the sacrifices of front-line municipal employees who keep our communities running under difficult conditions.

"It's unacceptable that elected representatives have chosen to prioritise their pockets as workers endure rising costs of living, unsafe working environments, and wage stagnation," he said.