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“I was evicted from where I rent because I am always paying rentals late. As we speak right now, a colleague of ours is busy looking for accommodation after being thrown out as well,” he said.
Most workers said they were “swimming” in debts.
“I borrowed US$1 from a neighbour to come to town today and promised my children that they would have a better meal.
“It is very painful to think that I will have to look for the US$1 to pay back the money I borrowed and disappoint my children once again,” said an emotional worker.
In October, the workers were paid after going on a week-long strike that almost grounded service delivery in the city.
Workers’ representatives addressed them after the meeting.
The secretary for the workers union, Mr Nkosiyabo Masuku, said they would not return to work unless they are paid their outstanding salaries.
“The situation is dire and extreme as people are not able to work anymore,” he said.
Mr Masuku said life was now difficult for them as their employer was not making any tangible commitment.
“We can not work because we do not have money. No-one can dig a grave on an empty stomach,” he said.
Contacted for comment, the mayor, Councillor Thaba Moyo, expressed ignorance over the issue, saying he was yet to receive a report from the responsible departments.
“I can not comment now because the Town Clerk has not updated me,” he said.
derick.khumalo
Online Reporter