As the country’s local currency continue to weaken against major foreign currency such as the United States Dollar leading to prices of goods skyrocketing on the market, Lilongwe City Council workers have put their tools down demanding 22 percent pay hike.

The workers who are also demanding a 5 percent pay hike which the council failed to effect this year as agreed during their previous meeting with City Council officials.

A visit by FaceofMalawi reporters at Lilongwe City Council found the workers just hovering outside the City premises while in groups.

Speaking in an interview, one of the workers who opted for condition of anonymity told FOM’s reporter that the striking workers will not resume work until their demands are met.

He said the workers have tried their level best to engage the Councils officials for a possible pay hike but no official showed interest on their grievances.

Effort to talk to Lilongwe City Council top officials proved futile as they were reportedly locked up in the meeting.

Over 1,800 workers which include Road maintenance workers are taking part in the strike and the other group has congregated at Lilongwe City Old Town Hall.