Over 85 percent of SA Municipal Workers' Union (Samwu) members boycotted a strike over wage increases in Gauteng on Monday, the SABC reported.
Workers told the broadcaster they did not take part because of corruption within the “dysfunctional” provincial leadership.
Their employer, the SA Local Government Association (Salga), said it was pleasantly surprised by the number of union members who arrived for work.
“We somehow expected it. We had put contingencies in place if the eventuality arose where we were overwhelmed... but there was not too much buy-in in Gauteng at least,” operations chief Lance Joel told Sapa.
He said if Gauteng did not attract strikers, it would be difficult to do so in any other province.
Samwu general secretary Mthandeki Nhlapo said he could not comment on participation until he had received feedback from provinces.
Workers around the country took to the streets on Monday for an 18 percent wage increase.
In Cape Town workers banged on bins and made fires out of trash outside the city's offices. Workers marched peacefully to the Bram Fischer building in Bloemfontein.
City of Johannesburg spokesman Nthatisi Modingoane said all essential services were running, despite the strike.
In Tshwane, only 17 percent workers failed to report for duty. In KwaZulu-Natal strikers stayed home as chilly weather gripped the province.
Samwu members wanted an 18 percent pay hike or R2000, whichever was greater.
Members rejected a six percent increase made to workers. Salga spokeswoman Milisa Kentane said their offer stood at 6.08 percent.
“Our doors remain open (for talks). But 18 percent is just not an option. Our municipalities will be unable to carry that.” - Sapa