Motorists have been warned to steer clear of the R21 highway in Ekurhuleni as EMPD officials engage in a protest.
The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department strike has resulted in numerous highways in the area being blocked, including the N12 and N17. The N3 southbound in the Vosloorus area has also been affected.
EMPD strike memorandum details grievances
Disgruntled EMPD officials have compiled a memorandum of demands detailing what has prompted the strike, including salary adjustments, capped overtime and alleged unfair labour practices.
The memorandum highlighted how the City of Ekurhuleni recently adjusted VIP EMPD salaries from R37 039 to R44 486 per month, including a 10% discrepancy benefit.
However, this has drawn the ire of police officials who claim higher levels of danger is a reality of standard officials:
“Ground-level officers face greater risks and dangers without receiving similar benefits, such as danger allowances and night shift allowances. The inequality in salary structures between VIP EMPD officers and standard EMPD officers must be addressed immediately.” EMPD Memorandum
More working days in comparison to other municipalities
In addition to grievances over salaries, EMPD officials have also compared themselves to other metros and denounced the higher number of working days.
While Johannesburg Metro Police Department officials work 16 days a month, EMPD officers work 24 days a month with ‘less rest and lower salaries’.
The memorandum details how this places EMPD officers at a disadvantage compared to their counterparts in neighbouring municipalities.
Deadline given for demands to be addressed
Interestingly, the memorandum revealed that similar demands were submitted through a specific union five years ago and have yet to be addressed.
“We, the officers of the EMPD, stand united in demanding fair compensation, just working conditions, and equitable treatment in line with constitutional labour rights. We dedicate our lives to serving and protecting the City of Ekurhuleni, and it is time that the leadership of this municipality reciprocates this commitment with fair and just policies.” EMPD Memorandum
The memorandum of demands concluded that the City of Ekurhuleni should formally respond to these grievances as soon as possible:
“This memorandum reflects our collective concerns and must be addressed with the urgency and seriousness it deserves. We look forward to a formal response from the City of Ekurhuleni and the earliest possible date, preferably within 7 days.” EMPD Memorandum
Were you affected by the EMPD strike?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
