SAMWU calls for removal of Umkhanyakude ministerial representative over governance failures

By Lungile Ntimba 

The South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU) in the Shonamalanga region has accused Bamba Ndwadwe, the Ministerial Representative at Umkhanyakude District Municipality, of widespread violations of labour rights and deliberately undermining workers’ conditions of service.

In June 2022, the municipal union said it formally communicated with the Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (COGTA), outlining several concerns related to Ndwadwe’s tenure.

Among the issues raised are unilateral changes to employment terms without consultation, interference in Supply Chain Management processes, delays in the provision of essential tools of trade, and the absence of a clear turnaround strategy.

SAMWU said these actions have eroded transparency and accountability in the municipality.

The union also cited the suspension of staff placement processes, which it says has harmed morale and career progression, as well as reports of physical threats made against workers.

Additional red flags include the irregular opening of a