SAMWU JOYOUSLY WELCOMES THE PERMANENT APPOINTMENT OF 497 CONTRACT WORKERS AT SOL PLAATJE MUNICIPALITY

13 February 2026

SAMWU JOYOUSLY WELCOMES THE PERMANENT APPOINTMENT OF 497 CONTRACT WORKERS AT SOL PLAATJE MUNICIPALITY

The South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) in the Northern Cape province joyously welcomes and celebrates the long-overdue permanent absorption of 497 contract workers at the Sol Plaatje Local Municipality. This historic victory is the direct result of years of relentless struggle, consistent pressure, and the unwavering outcry of workers championed by their union, SAMWU.

In a moving ceremony marking the first phase of a Local Labour Forum (LLF) resolution, management has officially handed over the first 125 permanent appointment letters. These letters were delivered in sealed envelopes to union representatives to be presented to our members, signifying a permanent end to the era of precarious employment for these individuals.

For too long, these workers have been left in the cold. Many have served the municipality since 2013, over a decade of service, without the dignity of basic benefits such as a pension fund, medical aid, or annual bonuses. It is a sad reality that while we celebrate today, some of our comrades passed away during this struggle, still waiting for the security of a permanent post. Others now find themselves with only a few years left before retirement, having spent the bulk of their careers in a state of uncertainty.

The turning point was reached following a militant five-day protest action, which finally compelled management to do the right thing and honour the demands of the working class. The atmosphere at the municipality was one of pure jubilation; workers were moved to tears of disbelief and joy, finally able to return home to their families and loved ones with the security they have fought so hard to achieve.

At our recent 13th Provincial Congress, SAMWU Northern Cape committed itself to an active campaign against municipalities that abuse contract workers. We resolved to stop at nothing to ensure full compliance with Section 198B of the Labour Relations Act, which protects workers against the indefinite use of fixed-term contracts.

SAMWU salutes the Local Shopsteward Committee of Sol Plaatje. Their dedication to executing the mandate of our members and their steadfast commitment to the cause have been exemplary. While we celebrate this first phase, the struggle continues. SAMWU will remain vigilant and will continue to monitor the process until every single one of the 497 workers is fully and permanently absorbed.

Issued by SAMWU Northern Cape
Pieter Demans
Provincial Secretary
071 269 1470

Or

Thobeka Mthintelwa
Deputy Provincial Secretary
076 329 8860