Easter Travel Chaos Looms As SATAWU Warns Of Bus Strike After Wage Talks Collapse

Passengers across South Africa could face major disruptions over the Easter weekend as the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union signals a potential nationwide bus strike.

The warning comes at a critical time when thousands are expected to travel, raising concerns that commuters may be left stranded if industrial action goes ahead.

Wage Talks Collapse Between SATAWU and Employers

SATAWU confirmed that negotiations with the South African Road Passenger Bargaining Council have broken down.

According to the union, a dispute was formally declared on 18 February after employers failed to meet workers’ demands. Efforts to resolve the matter during this week’s conciliation process also proved unsuccessful, with the union accusing management of refusing to present a revised offer.

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A certificate of non-resolution has since been issued, setting in motion a 30-day cooling-off period. The process also allows for a 48-hour strike notice to be served once the period lapses.

Union Slams Wage Offer as ‘Insult to Workers’ As Easter Holiday Approach

At the centre of the dispute is a wage disagreement. The union is pushing for a two-year agreement that includes a 6.5% increase.

However, employers have reportedly offered just 3.25%, a proposal SATAWU has strongly rejected.

SATAWU’s Head of Communications, Amanda Tshemese, said: “The employer is only giving us 3.25% and that is an insult to labour and the workers. We understand the challenges and the difficulties of the strike. However, it’s clear that these bus companies prefer to negotiate on the streets.”