As reported by Chris Gilili in the original post at Elitsha, over 60 Intercape bus drivers were fired on 7 July after joining the National Union for All Sectors (Nufas). They demand reinstatement.
IN SUMMARY :
- Muzi Kwankwa, one of the dismissed drivers, claims they were fired for unionizing, not for disobeying company instructions. He says the owner, Johann Ferreira, has historically resisted union efforts.
- Kwankwa says Intercape tried to negotiate an R60,000 settlement, which he found insulting, as no drivers earn close to R20,000 monthly. He asserts the company opposes unions to avoid compliance with labour laws.
- He also claims that the firing of experienced drivers has led to accidents due to hiring inexperienced replacements.
- Jean Baker, spokesperson for Nufas, alleges that Ferreira coerced workers into leaving the union and fabricated misconduct as grounds for dismissal. Workers were also subjected to harsh conditions in meetings.
- Baker says police refused to take action, considering it a labour dispute. The union has filed a complaint with the Western Cape police ombudsman.
- Lwandile Pretorius, another dismissed driver, says losing his job has caused financial hardship. He’s considering selling assets to survive.
- Onke Khuse, a driver since 2020, felt humiliated when removed from his post before a trip for joining the union.
- Intercape claims the drivers disobeyed lawful instructions, causing a breakdown in trust. The company consulted legal counsel before dismissing the workers and denies the union’s accusations.
