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“We have made arrangements with the health department and the police so that when the deaths occur, people call the police and make sure the forensic department sends vehicles to pick up the bodies. Families will not be affected when their loved ones pass away because on Thursday we will return and perform funerals for them, “said UTT KwaZulu-Natal facilitator and Nafupa SA president Muzi Hlengwa.
The association made the decision to shut down the industry after a standoff with the government over its concerns. Hlengwa said the funeral industry had been “reasonably patient” with the government, but had nothing to show “other than empty promises.”
“We need transformation in this industry, and we need it now.”
The industry wants the outsourcing of mortuary facilities to be recognized and legalized.
“One of the reasons closest to my heart is that the government is allowing it to be used to shut down or isolate small players in the industry. Mortuary facility ownership is expensive, so with those little halls we are here to help them where they fall short, “Hlengwa said.
After gathering in front of the morgue, the group of about 50 protesters visited funeral homes that were open to close them.
“If they try to resist, we will be forced to use minimal force,” Hlengwa said.
