Employee quit a day after starting work, taking a laptop and demanding a salary increase to 25 thousand

The government has formed the eighth departmental commission, and state agencies have already uploaded their employees' data to the portal. The commission holds regular meetings with employees and pension organizations. Meetings regarding the eighth departmental commission have already taken place in some cities, but assemblies still need to be held in many others.

During these meetings, employees voiced their demands to the commission, which include not only issues of salary and pensions but also vacation, benefits, housing allowance, and conformity coefficient. Based on these demands, the commission will submit its report to the government. After the report is submitted, the Cabinet of Ministers will approve it, after which rules for its implementation and subsequent application will be developed.

Most experts believe that the implementation of the eighth departmental commission may take more than a year, as there are many unfinished tasks remaining. Despite the commission working promptly, the process of forming and reviewing the final report may require significant time.

Although the eighth departmental commission may come into force at the end of 2027, it will be considered effective from January 2026. This means that the government will be able to make a lump-sum compensation payment to the accounts of civil servants and pensioners for a period of about two years.

The South African legal system provides women with important workplace guarantees covering issues from equal pay and maternity leave to protection against discrimination and harassment. This knowledge is particularly relevant on Women's Day.

Despite South Africa's progressive labour legislation, many women continue to face obstacles on the path to equality in the workplace. It is important to understand that workplace equality is not just a corporate ideal but a legal right protected by acts such as the Employment Equity Act (EEA) and the Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA).

Right to Equal Pay

The Employment Equity Act (EEA) prohibits unfair discrimination in employment conditions and terms, including discrimination based on sex or gender. It also establishes the principle of equal pay for work that is equal, substantially similar, or equivalent in value.

Differences in remuneration can be justified if they are based on objective and reasonable criteria, such as length of service, experience, qualifications, performance, or other lawful factors. If an employee believes that the pay difference constitutes unfair discrimination, they can raise this issue with the employer and, if necessary, approach the relevant legal authorities.

Protection During Maternity Leave

According to the BCEA, an employee has the right to at least four consecutive months of maternity leave. Generally, the leave can commence four weeks before the expected date of birth, unless otherwise agreed or required by health conditions.

Although the BCEA does not typically oblige an employer to pay full wages to an employee during maternity leave, qualified employees may be entitled to maternity benefits through the Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF), subject to meeting established requirements and calculations. Furthermore, employees are protected against discrimination related to pregnancy and against dismissal on such grounds. The EEA prohibits unfair discrimination on the basis of pregnancy, and the Labour Relations Act provides strong protection against dismissal for reasons related to pregnancy, presumed pregnancy, or other pregnancy-related matters.

Protection Against Harassment

South African labour legislation also protects employees from workplace harassment. According to the EEA and the Code of Good Practice on Preventing and Addressing Workplace Harassment, harassment related to a prohibited ground of discrimination can be considered unfair discrimination.

Employers are obliged to take appropriate steps to prevent and address harassment issues. Complaints must be taken seriously and handled properly; a failure by the employer to act after becoming aware of alleged harassment can lead to legal consequences.

Knowing Your Rights Matters

Challenging disputes regarding wages, harassment, or pregnancy-related discrimination can be a complex task, especially if an employee fears retaliation or does not know where to turn. This is where access to professional legal assistance can play a crucial role. Members of Legal Leaders Insurance have access to legal support that helps them understand their labour rights and available options when workplace disputes arise.

The Constitution of South Africa guarantees the right to equality and protects people from unfair discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of sex, gender, and pregnancy. On Women's Day, it is essential to empower oneself by knowing one's workplace rights and understanding the steps that can be taken when these rights are violated.