CITY OF EKURHULENI WILL NOT TOLERATE LAWLESSNESS AMID PLANNED MECSU STRIKE

The City of Ekurhuleni has noted the announcement by the Municipal Employees and Civil Servants Union (MECSU) that its members intend to continue their strike action on Monday, 15 September 2025, at the OR Tambo Government Precinct and Civic Centre.

The City reminds MECSU and its members that the Labour Court has already granted an interim interdict, which expressly prohibits any obstruction of employees and residents, as well as interference with municipal operations and access to essential public services. Any further action in contravention of this order will amount to contempt of court, and the City will not hesitate to pursue the strongest legal remedies available against the leaders of MECSU.

It must be emphasised that the OR Tambo Government Precinct and Civic Centre in Germiston is not one of the areas listed on MECSU’s approved strike application, and any attempt to stage demonstrations there will be in direct breach of both the strike conditions and the court order.

The City has proactively reinforced security measures through the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) and has activated its Memorandum of Cooperation with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure that the OR Tambo Government Precinct remains safe and accessible to residents. Employees are urged to report for duty tomorrow without fear, as their safety is assured.

The City further cautions that essential public services, including the Germiston Civic Centre, library, clinic, and Forensic Pathology Services, must not be disrupted under any circumstances. Interfering with these facilities harms ordinary residents, particularly vulnerable families, individuals with chronic illnesses, pregnant mothers and infants who depend on these clinical services daily.

The City respects the constitutional right to protest, but reiterates that such rights must be exercised within the framework of the law and court directives. Lawlessness and the vandalism of public property will not be tolerated. The full might of the state and law enforcement will be deployed tomorrow to ensure the protection of residents and the continuity of essential services.