The South African Post Office (SAPO) has recently seen sporadic picketing and work stoppages at its outlets and offices.
Striking workers descended on the Edenvale branch on July 2 and forced its workers to close the branch.
The NEWS reported on July 3 that the demonstrators were workers from other branches.
Outlets affected are mainly in large centres, while service in smaller towns continues.
Also read: Edenvale Post Office forced to close its doors after illegal strikers descend on the branch
Johan Kruger, a spokesperson of the SAPO, said the Edenvale branch was opened briefly on July 6.
“It was forced to shut its doors again by intimidating workers.
“The workers have a certificate which allows them to strike,” said Kruger.
“They are required to stand 50 metres from the branch and they are not allowed to intimidate anyone.”
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Spokesperson Bongani Diako apologised on behalf of the SAPO for the interruption in services.
Diako explained that the strike was related to wage salary negotiations.
He said the SAPO is in negotiations with employees and trade unions.
Negotiations are being facilitated by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
“The CCMA facilitator allowed time for trade union representatives to consult with their members and the parties,” said Diako.
Negotiations were expected to resume on July 9.
“SAPO management requested the trade unions to suspend the industrial action until the parties meet again,” said Diako.
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In addition to affecting normal operations at post offices, the strike has affected South Africa Social Security Agency (Sassa) beneficiaries who use post offices to withdraw grants.
Diako reminded Sassa beneficiaries that ATMs or supermarkets can be used to make withdrawals.
By July 6 the Edenvale Post Office was still closed.
