CHAOS erupted in Waterfall this morning when construction workers took to the streets in protest against what they claim to be the unequal employment at the WaterCrest Shopping Centre project.
Strikers are concerned that the construction company is outsourcing labour to workers from outside areas, calling it “unfair and unconstitutional”.
According to Steven King, member of SA Community Crime Watch and SecureLink, the protestors gathered outside Mazzarat Farm in a non-violent protest this morning.
However, as they headed up to Brackenhill Road towards the construction site at around 10.30am, the protest turned violent.
“Protestors have littered the streets and burnt tyres forcing the closure of Brackenhill Road, Inanda Road, Link Road (by Engen Garage), and Rock Road. There have also been reports of stoning and pedestrians being chased away by the frustrated protestors,” said King.
There are currently 200 people gathered outside the BP garage at WaterCrest Shopping Centre.
One member of the protesting committee confirmed that they have handed over a memorandum to Rowles Property Group and are currently awaiting feedback.
Tex Collins, the PR councillor for Ward 9 said, allegations of constructions workers with ANC cards given preferential employment have fuelled more anger among protestors.
“Residents within the community feel they are being disenfranchised, and while I understand where they are coming from, I don’t agree with the manner in which they are handling the situation,” added Collins.
JC Delport, a resident in Waterfall, described the protest as “total chaos”. He said he saw people walking around with sticks and he felt unsafe travelling within the community.
He questioned the whereabouts of the current Ward 9 councillor, Sithembiso Mchunu, who was not present at the protest.
He said he contacted her telephonically to find out about the protest. According to Delport, she claimed she was far away from the protest but would not disclose her whereabouts.
Highway Mail has been unable to contact Mchunu and Rowles Property Group for comment.
Metro Police and the SAPS are currently at the scene monitoring the protest situation.
