The Citizen reports that according to Anglican Bishop Johannes Seoka, August 16 must be declared a public holiday in honour of the 34 mineworkers killed by police during labour unrest in Marikana four years ago.
Speaking on the fourth anniversary of the massacre, Seoka said: “Instead of honouring those fallen heroes, government has been working with Lonmin platinum mine and talking about developing the area. They have not been listening to the people on the ground, hence the anger from mineworkers, who believe those in power have long forgotten about them.” He also noted that government had not organised any event in commemorating the day, even though the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (Amcu) and others had worked hard in preparation to honour the deceased. Among other events, a cultural event was scheduled to kick off at 9am, followed by a prayer session at 10am.
- Read this report by Steven Tau in full at The Citizen
- See too, Amcu to commemorate Marikana shootings, at News24
Get other news reports at the SA Labour News home page