30 August 2010

The IFP-aligned South African Democratic Students' Movement (SADESMO) has noted the ongoing Public Servants strike with great concern as it seems a solution will not be reached soon, particularly with the threat of a total shut down of all sectors on Thursday.

SADESMO National Spokesperson, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, said; 'Our levels of concern grow with each day that the strike action continues. Education, schooling and teaching have come to a full halt. And it certainly seems to us that Government does not seem to care. Learners have been left destitute simply because Government is refusing to pay decent salaries and wages. This prolonged delay is totally unacceptable by any measure. Government had better pay up if it is serious about the collective sustainable livelihoods of South Africans."

Violence and intimidation have been reported in many areas and; "as SADESMO we condemn in the strongest possible terms any forms of violence and intimidation towards anyone. We call on all workers to exercise their democratic right to strike with discipline and not to inflict harm on anybody. Those who violate the rights of others in any way should be arrested immediately," added Hlengwa.

"President Zuma has failed outright to provide much needed leadership on this matter and chose,  instead to dash off to China, leaving the country in chaos, disarray, uncertainty and in confusion. This is simply not good enough, Mr President,' it's high time to sort the mess out," Hlengwa concluded.

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Mkhuleko Hlengwa

SADESMO: National Spokesperson