The content on this page is not written by Polity.org.za, but is supplied by third parties. This content does not constitute news reporting by Polity.org.za.

RISE Mzansi is calling on the management of Pikitup to immediately make public the pending legal opinion regarding the status and absorption of casual workers. Security of employment, fair labour practices, and the cleanliness of our city cannot be kept behind closed doors any longer.

Following a critical meeting between Pikitup management and casual workers, it was revealed that management is currently awaiting a legal opinion, expected to be delivered on Friday, 17 July 2026. 

In the interest of a constructive resolution, workers have wisely requested that negotiations resume on Monday, 20 July 2026 at 14:00, allowing all parties time to thoroughly review the document. RISE Mzansi will be present at this meeting to monitor progress and support a fair outcome.

For years, the workers who keep Joburg clean have been subjected to precarious, casualised labour under external contractors. The residents of Joburg, who are directly affected by the cleanliness of their neighbourhoods, have a right to know what is stalling the resolution of this crisis. 

RISE Mzansi is deeply concerned by revelations from our engagements with workers on the ground. Permanent employees are currently considering "downing tools" in solidarity with their casualised colleagues.

This solidarity action is driven by a severe breach of operational standards; while the standard operating procedure dictates that no waste removal truck should leave a depot with fewer than six workers, the current reality across most depots in the city is that trucks are being sent out with only two or three workers, severely overworking staff and compromising safety.

If permanent employees join the casual workers in a full-blown strike, it will lead to a total, catastrophic collapse of waste management services – a nightmare the city it residents and business community simply cannot afford. This crisis underscores the urgent need for leadership that prioritises the people who live and work in our city. 

Issued by RISE Mzansi Joburg Mayoral candidate Lukhona Mnguni