Here’s what is happening in and affecting South Africa today:
Coronavirus: Global Covid-19 infections have hit 145.4 million confirmed, with the death toll reaching 3.09 million. In South Africa, there have been 1,413 new cases, taking the total reported to 1,571,348. Deaths have reached 53,995 (a daily increase of 55), while recoveries have climbed to 1,496,756, leaving the country with a balance of 20,597 active cases. The vaccine rollout is still paused.
- To war: As unions wait for government to respond to public wage demands today, there is a view from leaders that a ‘war’ with government is unavoidable at this stage. Government has taken a position that public servants should not get a wage increase in the coming year due to budget constraints. Unions, meanwhile, are demanding increases as least above inflation, with a host of other add-ons. Union leaders are already seeking strike certification ahead of government’s response, believing that their demands…