Nelson Mandela University has been granted an interim interdict against striking Nehawu union workers, who, according to the university, have been guilty of participating in unlawful behaviour.
According to the university’s spokesperson, Primarashni Gower, the strike has entered day five on the George and Gqeberha campuses.
“The interdict applies to all campuses and prohibits NEHAWU members from harassing or interfering in any way with temporary, casual or permanent staff and students.
“Preventing access to the George and Gqeberha campuses.
“Unlawfully interfering or obstructing operations of the universities at its campuses and distributing litter or other forms of waste on university property,” reads Gower’s statement to PE Express.
According to Gower, the interim interdicts restrain union members from picketing outside the locations prescribed in terms of the picketing rules established by the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA).
” Should NEHAWU members ignore the conditions of the interim court order, the University will approach the court and file for contempt for the violation of it,” she said.
NEHAWU Eastern Cape secretary, Mlungisi Ncapayi, said they know the interim interdict against their members. However, they believe that this is a ploy by Nelson Mandela University to frustrate workers.
Nehawu striking members demand an ” 8% increase, and the university is giving us 6,9%.”
“We want a meeting on Monday to try and find a solution and common ground,” he said.
“Workers want to contribute and do what they are supposed to do regarding their contracts,” he concluded.
