R28 blocked by alleged Pikitup protest earlier today
Police were called out to deal with a protest on the R28 a short while ago.
Motorists might want to consider taking an alternative route from Westonaria and Bekkersdal, following a concerning protest on the R28 earlier today.
Just before 9am, a section of the road was blocked off by protesters, believed to be municipal workers.
The Herald was informed of the protest on several Community Policing Forum Whatsapp and social media groups. By the time we arrived, the Gauteng Provincial Police were on scene, and the protesters had left.
At about noon, while still on scene, the Herald was informed that the protest was over and the protesters had gone back to their residential areas. There were also no injuries reported.
The officer then continued, saying the road was blocked off and the situation was under control. There are however, concerns that the protesters may return.
The Herald asked the officer what the protest was about and he replied, “This is a municipal issue. They are protesting because their contracts come to an end, at the end of March. They were on monthly employment contracts, but they want a yearly contract.”
He added they were upset because they were supposed to have a meeting with Mzi Khumalo, Rand West City executive mayor, but he did not arrive.
In a telephonic interview, Khumalo said the protest involved Pikitup employees and that the municipality had no intention of extending the contract. He explained that the municipality only had funds for the one year in its budget. He also said that until the amalgamation process is finalised no other contracts will be signed.
Whether the protest will flare up again remains to be seen.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (please remember to include your contact details in the email) or phone us on 011 693 3671.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Roodepoort Record, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
