The Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) is currently in dispute with Sibanye Platinum (formerly Aquarius Platinum) at its Kroondal Mine in the Rustenburg area regarding the appointment of a bus contractor. As a result of the dispute, Amcu members began striking yesterday evening.

According to Solidarity General Secretary Gideon du Plessis, the striking workers already stoned some vehicles last night, and this morning a Solidarity member was assaulted by the strikers. “In addition, the commencement of the strike yesterday evening also violated the 48-hour strike notice, which only expired this morning; therefore the strike began as an unprotected strike,” Du Plessis explained.

“Solidarity calls on Amcu’s leadership to get its members under control and to exercise their right to strike within the guidelines of all relevant legislation. Solidarity furthermore calls on Amcu to declare its interests regarding a particular bus company, as it is believed that the reason behind the strike lies in Amcu’s desire to protect its own commercial interests,” Du Plessis said.

“Finally, Solidarity calls on Sibanye to obtain an interdict against Amcu should the violence against and intimidation of non-striking workers continue,” Du Plessis warned.

Issued by Solidarity