Members of the South African Local Government Association Workers’ Union (SALAWU) in Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape have joined a nationwide protected strike over alleged unfair labour practices, frozen vacancies, understaffing and a controversial retirement policy.
The strike follows a breakdown in negotiations between the union and the employer.
Legal Aid employees participating in the action say they are facing heavy workloads while earning low wages.
SALAWU representative Siphelo Gila says workers are carrying a significant share of legal services provided in South Africa despite the challenges they face.
Gila says, “We have been underpaid, and you compare the work that we do. It’s too much. I mean, it is known with regard to the court coverage. Out of 90%, we normally will cover 90, out of 100%, I mean. almost 90% of the work has been provided legally in South Africa, which is us. Now, we are facing these challenges. And also, we can mention that even on the last day, we thought about the issue of a performance bonus. It was this organization that, of course, the employer eventually, when they resisted giving us a performance bonus. We are in darkness this year, as to whether we’re going to get it or not.”
The union says key issues include vacant positions that remain unfilled, staff shortages and uncertainty around employee benefits.
Workers have vowed to continue with the protected strike while awaiting progress in discussions with the employer.
Legal Aid staff to hold two-day protected strike:
LEGAL AID SA ASSURES CONTINUITY OF SERVICES
AMID INDUSTRIAL ACTIONLegal Aid SA confirms that the South African Lawyers and Allied Workers Union (SALAWU) has commenced industrial action today, 17 June 2026.
Legal Aid SA respects the constitutional rights of employees to… pic.twitter.com/yyNJROxSXY
— Legal Aid South Africa (@LegalAidSA1) June 17, 2026
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