The unlawful occupation of district offices affected operations as staff had to report to work at other health facilities across the district. The illegal occupation was reported to the South African Police Services and despite several visits to the building, the police were unable to remove the protesters.

The Department then sought a court interdict against the protesters which was granted by Friday, 22 July, for them to immediately vacate the offices and to stop intimidating or preventing employees from accessing the workplace.

The protesting people are demanding to be employed in the district. The department had previously embarked on an extensive consultative process which involved contract employees, unions, and the Provincial Treasury. The process led to the absorption of 8619 Community Health Workers who were on contract into permanent posts. This process was concluded in July 2020.

We have noted that since the appointments were effected, following the conclusion of the verification processes, the department started receiving requests from people claiming to have been CHWs at some point.

GDoH wishes to extend its appreciation to the district employees for their patience during this difficult period and want to reassure them that their safety remains a priority.