The South African Communist Party (SACP) in Bloemfontein has launched a protest demanding the reinstatement of workers dismissed from the Mangaung Metro power utility, CENTLEC, alleging unfair treatment and systemic corruption within the entity.
Demonstrators marched to CENTLEC offices on Thursday to deliver a memorandum of demands, which includes calls for the removal of the CEO over accusations of abuse of power, nepotism, and irregular appointments. The SACP, an alliance partner of the African National Congress (ANC), has also urged the Special Investigating Unit (SIU) to probe alleged corruption in the utility.
Workers Claim Unfair Dismissals, Nepotism
One dismissed worker, who spoke during the protest, claimed he was unfairly dismissed after refusing an undocumented transfer.
“I was unfairly dismissed for a simple thing. When I was requested to transfer, I asked for proper documentation outlining the conditions of my new role, but it never happened,” he said.
Protesters accused CENTLEC management of favoritism, alleging that relatives of politicians and senior officials were given preferential employment.
“The problem of victimization, corruption, and the hiring of children, wives, and friends of management is key. There’s mismanagement of public funds, yet they demand high electricity tariffs from struggling communities,” an SACP representative stated.
Demands Include Affordable Tariffs, Youth Employment
In addition to the reinstatement of workers and the CEO’s dismissal, the SACP is pushing for reduced electricity tariffs for residents. The Young Communist League of South Africa (YCLSA) also joined the protest, calling for more job opportunities for young people.
“We call on all young people to fight for their future. Workers must unite against a system that oppresses them daily,” a YCLSA member said.
Legal Challenges and Board Disbandment
The protest comes after CENTLEC recently disbanded its board, while several dismissed workers have taken legal action to contest their terminations. The SACP has given the utility 14 days to respond to their demands.
As tensions rise, the SACP warns of further action if their grievances are not addressed, signaling a deepening conflict over governance and labor rights in Mangaung’s power sector.
