The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) has vowed to closely monitor the implementation of a Rustenburg Local Municipality council resolution to adjust workers’ salaries from a Level 5 to a Level 7 municipal scale.
The federation has welcomed the decision, which was adopted during a special council sitting on Tuesday, following COSATU’s intervention in what it described as a long-standing and unresolved matter.
Speaking on YOU FM’s Newshour, COSATU General Secretary Solly Phetoe said the resolution was long overdue, noting that the municipality had been declared a Level 7 municipality more than 15 years ago.
“You will remember that the declaration was made 15 years ago for this municipality to be upgraded to Level 7. However, previous political leaders continued to delay its implementation, citing financial constraints,” said Phetoe.
He explained that the breakthrough came after an intervention meeting held on January 8 between COSATU President Zingisa Losi, himself, the Executive Mayor and the Municipal Manager.
“That engagement led to the urgent convening of council to ratify the long-overdue salary upgrading for municipal workers,” Phetoe said.
COSATU said the council’s decision would bring much-needed relief to thousands of workers, particularly those burdened by debt.
“This is a progressive victory for employees in this municipality. It will help ease debt, improve workers’ ability to support their families and stimulate local economic growth. Fair compensation will also boost morale and workplace productivity,” Phetoe added.
He further emphasised that the municipality has the financial capacity to implement the upgrade without compromising service delivery.
“During our discussions, the municipal troika confirmed that the funds are available. The Municipal Manager and Chief Financial Officer made presentations confirming that the municipality will remain financially sustainable and continue delivering services to communities,” said Phetoe.
He added that COSATU would now work closely with its affiliate, the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU), to ensure the council resolution is fully implemented.
Meanwhile, the African National Congress (ANC) in the North West has also welcomed the decision, describing it as a significant victory for workers and a demonstration of the ANC-led government’s commitment to improving working conditions and livelihoods.
“This decision represents a significant victory for workers and reflects the ANC’s commitment to dignity, fair labour practices and improved conditions for municipal employees,” said provincial spokesperson Tumelo Maruping.
Maruping commended the Rustenburg Local Municipality for prioritising workers’ welfare while maintaining service delivery, adding that a motivated and fairly treated workforce is essential to building a capable, ethical and developmental local government.
