The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) expresses its deepest
condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Ms Gcina Dladla, an employee
of Cartrack who tragically passed away at the company’s offices in Rosebank,
Johannesburg.
SAFTU is deeply concerned by allegations that Ms Dladla had been unwell for some
time before her death and that requests for sick leave and medical attention were not
adequately accommodated. Sick leave is a fundamental right protected by the Basic
Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA), and all employers are obliged to respect and
uphold these provisions.
It is deeply troubling that, in 2026, there are still allegations of employers placing
profits, targets, and productivity ahead of the health and well-being of workers.
According to reports from colleagues, Ms Dladla had reportedly been displaying
signs of ill health since mid-May, including frequent vomiting and repeated visits to
the bathroom. It is further alleged that after taking time to seek medical attention, she
faced increased pressure through disciplinary processes rather than receiving the
support and accommodation that her condition required.
These allegations, if proven, point to a workplace culture in which employees feel
intimidated, victimised, and unable to exercise their rights without fear of retaliation.
Such conditions are incompatible with the principles of dignity, fairness, and decent
work that are guaranteed by South African labour legislation.
If these allegations are confirmed, they would represent a serious violation of both
labour rights and the basic principles of human dignity. Sick leave is not a privilege
granted at the discretion of management. It is a legal right protected by the Basic
Conditions of Employment Act. No employee should be made to feel that taking time
off to seek medical treatment will result in punishment, intimidation, or victimisation.
Particularly heart-breaking is a message reportedly sent by Ms Dladla to a family
member shortly before her death, in which she described feeling exhausted and
emotionally drained by her working environment. In the message, she reportedly
stated:
“Oh, another thing, Aunt. Personally, I’m feeling drained about Cartrack. Just that I
won’t resign because I don’t have any backup plan. Nangapha am applying akuveli
lutho.”
This message speaks to the harsh reality faced by many workers in South Africa. In
a country plagued by unemployment, poverty, and economic insecurity, workers
often remain in workplaces that negatively affect their health and well-being because
they simply cannot afford to leave. Workers should never be placed in a position
where they feel compelled to endure conditions that undermine their health to
survive.
SAFTU wishes to remind all employers that workplaces are not meant to be toxic,
intolerant, or hostile environments. The Occupational Health and Safety Act places a
legal duty on employers to provide and maintain a safe working environment and
without risk to the health of employees. Workers have the right to raise concerns
regarding their health and safety and to be treated with dignity and respect.
We therefore call for:
- A full and independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ms
Dladla’s death. - An urgent inspection of working conditions at the CartrackRosebank offices by the
relevant authorities. - Protection for employees who come forward with information regarding workplace
conditions. - Accountability should ensure that any violations of labour or occupational health
and safety laws are identified. - Stronger enforcement of labour legislation to ensure that no worker is subjected to
intimidation, victimisation, or unsafe working conditions.
The death of any worker is a tragedy. It is even more tragic when serious questions
arise about whether that death could have been prevented.
SAFTU will continue to
monitor developments closely and stands in solidarity with Ms Dladla’s family,
colleagues, and all workers fighting for safe, healthy, and dignified workplaces.
A statement was issued on behalf of SAFTU by the Deputy General Secretary,
Nontembeko Luzipo.
For media inquiries, contact the Deputy General Secretary at
nontembekoI@saftu.org.za
0605433037
Media Officer
Asive Dyani
0719019564
