SABC News reports that promises of permanent jobs, allegations of nepotism and corruption have pushed Pikitup casual workers in Johannesburg into an ongoing strike, disrupting service delivery.

The casual workers say they were promised permanent employment last year and went through the hiring process, including medical tests. However, in June this year, they were told that Pikitup had no budget to employ them permanently. Workers are also questioning the hiring process, alleging nepotism and corruption.

Pikitup Spokesperson Themba Magoda has called on residents to hold the city accountable for the lack of service delivery. “Residents (are) in the crossfire of what is happening…we apologise to the residents of the City of Joburg. The main aim is to ensure our cries are heard – people must hold the City of Johannesburg accountable. We are doing service delivery for the City of Johannesburg.”