Bus drivers blame employer for nationwide strike
Some bus drivers who have joined the nationwide strike say they were left with no option but to participate in the industrial action so as to force the employer to accede to their demands.
Commuters have been left stranded or have had to take taxis in many parts of the country.
Drivers affiliated to the South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (Satawu) are demanding a 12% increase, while employers are offering 7%.
The impact of the strike is being felt around the country, with about 15 bus companies not operating.
A driver with the Great North Transport company in Limpopo says they need the larger increase so they can continue taking care of their families.
“Now we end up in the strike due to these people…now they are talking about giving us 8% for three years and it is not acceptable,” the driver says.