The Mpumalanga Department of Health caused outrage among newly appointed doctors after attempting to significantly reduce their salaries by cancelling overtime contracts. – The Citizen (17 Jan 2025).
According to a recent circular from the Department, all new medical professionals employed from 1 January would only have commuted overtime contracts valid until 31 March.
This caused the SA Medical Trade Union (SAMTU) threatening to strike.
“Mpumalanga Health MEC, Sasekani Manzini, defended the decision, citing overspending as the reason for downgrading overtime contracts.
“Following the union’s strong opposition the Department withdrew the circular and agreed to further engagements with all parties involved. The matter is expected to be finalised before the end of the financial year.”