Transnet must be privatized
13 October 2022
Please find attached a soundbite by Ghaleb Cachalia MP.
With unions having rejected the latest offer of a four to five percent increase, it is unlikely that a satisfactory solution that does not cripple the economy will be found to the eight-day Transnet strike. Any solution is likely to pander to the unions to the detriment of Transnet and the provision of essential services.
What is clear is that ailing SOEs are showing real losses and are unable to bear the cost of higher wages.
While government ministers engage unions and the Transnet board – no doubt preceded by warm fraternal greetings and comradely hugs – Transnet has told clients that all landside operations at ports have been suspended and the Road Freight Association says the suspension means that imported cargo is not getting onto trucks.