SAMWU NORTHERN CAPE CONDEMNS UNETHICAL EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES IN KAROO HOOGLAND MUNICIPALITY
22 April 2026
SAMWU NORTHERN CAPE CONDEMNS UNETHICAL EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES IN KAROO HOOGLAND MUNICIPALITY
The South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) in the Northern Cape unequivocally condemns the unethical and deeply troubling employment practices currently unfolding at Karoo Hoogland Municipality.
The union has learned with great concern of the appointment of the spouses of both the Mayor and the Speaker of Council to positions as their respective Personal Assistants (PAs). This blatant act of nepotism undermines principles of fairness, transparency, and merit in public administration. It has severely damaged employee morale, stifled productivity, and eroded trust within the workplace — all of which have direct negative implications for service delivery.
It is further alarming that the Speaker (VF+) initiated this practice through the appointment of his spouse, and that the Mayor, as the political head of the municipality, has chosen to perpetuate this misconduct rather than take corrective action. Such conduct reflects a blatant disregard for labour laws and governance standards, and constitutes a direct insult to the many unemployed youth and community members whom the municipality is duty-bound to serve. These actions pose a serious threat to labour stability and institutional integrity within the municipality.
On 15 April 2026, the Provincial leadership of SAMWU convened a meeting with the Acting Municipal Manager to raise the concerns of over 90% of employees who are members of SAMWU in the municipality. The union has formally demanded a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the recruitment processes that led to these appointments.
SAMWU will further escalate this matter to the Public Protector and the Auditor-General to ensure that appropriate remedial action is taken and accountability is enforced.The union remains resolute in its commitment to defend ethical governance, protect workers’ rights, and safeguard the integrity of public institutions.
Issued by SAMWU Northern Cape
P.F.Demas,
Provincial Secretary
(071 269 1470)
or
E. Gaika,
Regional Secretary
(060 589 2543)