Premier slams strike violence

2010-09-06 07:41

Johannesburg - Gauteng Premier Nomvula Mokonyane on Sunday condemned violence by striking public servants, saying that differences between people were no reason to hurt or kill.

"Our differences should not degenerate into senseless killing of fellow human beings," she said to hospital management and workers at Chris Hani Baragwanath hospital in Soweto.

Mokonyane was referring to the violent attacks on non-striking workers during the strike by public servant

Nurse attacked

Earlier, she had visited a nurse who was attacked and admitted to Milpark hospital.

Lynette Dube sustained head injuries on Friday evening after being badly beaten when she turned up at work, allegedly by striking workers.

Following her visit, Mokonyane said Dube's condition was serious but stable.

Mokonyane asked union members to respect agreements that would soon be reached between unions and government.

She also thanked hospital management and workers for risking their lives by continuing to work during the strike.

Provincial commissioner of police Mzwandile Petros was one of many who accompanied Mokonyane.

He said that police resources would be intensified to ensure protection of non-striking workers, including those in state hospitals.

- SAPA