Youth in historic turn-out

As the YCL we take this opportunity to congratulate the 1.6 million new voters who have been registered in this weekend's registration period. We are even more excited that 77% of the new voters are young people. This shows that the efforts put by our members and leaders have borne fruits.

ANC YL on voter registration turnout

The African National Congress Youth League once again expresses its satisfaction on the number of young people who turned out for voter registration on the 8th and 9th of November 2009. This turnout dispels the myth that young people are apathetic and not interested in politics in South Africa.

Voter registration weekend

The ANC congratulates the people of South Africa following the successful countrywide voter registration weekend. The ANC calls upon those who had no time to register to vote to do so at IEC and municipality offices on weekdays. We welcome the proposed voter registration weekend in February.

Resignation of Smuts Ngonyama

Smuts Ngonyama tendered his resignation to the ANC today [13 November 2008]. The ANC accepts and welcomes his resignation without any regrets. We wish him luck in this further endeavours.

Jacob Zuma visits Northern Cape

On the final leg of his Northern Cape visit, ANC President Jacob Zuma continued a public engagement with local communities, workers, business, youth, women, traditional and religious leaders on key priorities for the ANC after elections. Full report in COSATU Today.

Renationalise SASOL and Mittal Steel

Hundreds of SACP and alliance members, drawn from all of our structures in the province, will be marching for the re-nationalisation of SASOL and Mittal Steel. The march will be held on Saturday, 15 November 2008, starting at Workers' Library, New Town, Jhb, at 09h30 and proceed to Premier's office.

Make the Ginwala Report Public!

The Freedom of Expression Institute (FXI) has written to President Kgalema Motlanthe to request him to make the Ginwala Commission's Report on the fitness of Adv Pokoli to hold office of National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP) available to the public by Friday, 14 November 2008.

Proudly South African Expo

A Proudly South African Conference is being held on 17 November 2008 at Grand West, Cape Town, starting at 07h30 with a breakfast. A concert will be held on Monday 17 November at 19h30 at Grand West and featuring Claire Philips, Kurt Schoonraad and others. – COSATU Western Cape

FIFPRO General Assembly Resolutions

SAFPU officials arrived back on 10 November 2008 from a three day FIFPRO General Assembly in Santiago Chile, attended by forty six member countries, three candidate and five observers from Africa, America, Asia and Europe. Detailed report in COSATU Today.

Thousands march to the CCMA

Over 2000 members of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) march to the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) in Matlosana, Klerksdorp to present a memorandum over the slow pace in which cases are being dealt with, and other deficiencies.

FAWU rejects 8 percent offer

The Food and Allied Workers' Union rejects the latest offer of an eight percent wage increase to farm workers as proposed by the Agricultural Employers' Organisation. We believe that 8 percent in present circumstances is tantamount to slave practices.

BWI slams death of SA forest workers

BWI has learned of the tragic death of at least 23 forestry workers today in South Africa who were the unfortunate victims of a tragic road accident on their way to work. Loading workers on to open trucks is completely unacceptable. BWI shares the grief of the families of the workers.

Stop Carrying Workers on Open Trucks

All those who continue to transport workers on open trucks should be held liable for these workers' deaths. This week in Mpumalanga more than 20 lives were lost due to this negligent practice. FAWU calls on government and parliament to enact legislation that prohibits this slave type of practice.

COSATU mourns workers’ deaths

COSATU is angry at the death of at least 23 workers between Bushbuckridge and Dwarsloop. The open truck on which they we being transported to work collided with a KFC truck. We demand that the law must be changed and rigidly enforced, so that employers are forced to use safe forms of transport.

WFDY 63rd Anniversary Declaration

The World Federation of Democratic Youth celebrates 63 years of its constitution on 10 November 2008. We in a historical necessity to find the exact point between theory and practice so we can be able to throw away for once and forever the unfair imperialist system. More in COSATU Today

US Blockade a crime against humanity

The US persistence of the policy of blockade is irrational, immoral, cruel, and vindictive. This policy is a consequence of a US government hell-bent on increasing harm, suffering and inducing apartheid-type consequences against the Cuban people and their country’s sovereignty. More details in COSATU Today

COSATU backs ZCTU on SADC deal

COSATU fully supports the statement by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions on the outcome of the extraordinary summit of the SADC Heads of State and Government, and reaffirms its support for the creation of a transitional administration whose only function will be to organised new elections.

Outcome of Extraordinary SADC Summit

ZCTU has not been surprised by the failure of the SADC Summit to break the impasse between ZANU PF and the MDC. The SADC bloc leaders have shown to be an Old Boys association that stands by any leader in office and ignore the opposition. The ZCTU says no to this sham of an approach.

ANC Media Liaison Team

The ANC is please to advise that the ANC national media liaison team has been strengthened with the appointment of Carl Niehaus, who will assist ANC national spokesperson Jessie Duarte in the period leading up to the 2009 election. Full contact details in COSATU Today.

National Working Committee Statement

The NWC of the ANC YL met on the 11 November to make reflections on the following concrete organisational and political issues: Voter Registration; National Youth Development Agency; Provincial Visits; SABC; Zimbabwe; the dissident rebel political party. Full details in COSATU Today.

ANC National Working Committee

The ANC NWC met at Luthuli House in Johannesburg on 10 November 2008 and announced a Manifesto Policy Conference on 28-30 November, Provincial List Conferences to be completed by 7 December, and a National List Conference on 13-14 December. More details in COSATU Today.

Ditsela’s new offices

You are cordially invited to celebrate the official opening of Ditsela’s new offices. The details are as follows:

• Date: 28 November 2008
• Time: 13h00
• Address: Ditsela Workers’ Education Institute, 24 Kruis Street (Cnr Marshall Street)
• Food: A finger lunch and refreshments will be served

DME: Intervene at ERPM!

Over two thousands NUM members will today march to the Department of Labour in Boksburg to demand government intervention at DRD Gold’s East Rand Proprietary Mine (ERPM). NUM calls on the DME to revoke the license if needs be and award it to more deserving companies.

Free State ARV rollout failure

DENOSA is concerned about the failure of the department of health in the Free State to give patients Anti-Retro Viral (ARV’s). Our conscience as DENOSA in Free State does not allow us to let this happen. We call the department to immediately provide patients with this vital treatment.

Global crisis, economic summit

We leaders of NUMSA are happy to inform all our members and the people of this beautiful country, South Africa, that we are on course to translate into a Four Year Master Programme all the Resolutions of our 8th National Congress. Full text in COSATU Today.

Goldfields: 11 000 to down tools

A total of 11 000 mineworkers today down tools to observe a day of mourning at Beatrix mine in the Free State, owned by serial killer Gold Fields in line with NUM resolution of observing a day of mourning for each fatality that occurs in the mines, after a mineworker lost his life last week.

Strike action hits Lonmin

Over 2000 NUM members downed tools at Lonmin after the collapse of protracted negotiations on the equalisation of pay for workers at Lonmin Limpopo and at other Lonmin operations. It is not the economic meltdown that is the problem, but poor planning on the part of its management.

One more mineworker dead, two critical

A mineworker died at Northam Platinum in Rustenburg at 21 level due to methane explosion. One other worker was critically injured after what is reported to be a fall of groun. Another worker was injured at Murrray and Roberts. Both injured are in hospital, in the Intensive Care Unit. - NUM

Swazi Election Unconstitutional, SCCCO

The Swaziland Coalition of Concerned Civic Organisations has challenged the appointments of all five of the Elections and Boundaries Commission as being unconstitutional. ‘If that is the case then the constitution is window dressing set up to fool the international community,’ says Musa Hlophe

SADC Extraordinary Summit

The MDC is shocked and saddened that the SADC Summit has failed to tackle these key issues. We remain committed to the agreement and peaceful resolution of the Zimbabwean crisis. The democratic voice and vote of the Zimbabwean people will one day be heard and respected – Morgan Tsvangirai

Diva Miriam Makeba

The YCL learned with shock and sadness about the untimely passing on of renowned South African music diva Mama Miriam Makeba. May the present generations of musicians and performers draw a leaf from Makeba's progressive and rich music work.

Tribute to Mama Africa, Miriam Makeba

Mama Miriam epitomised the essence of creative artists' contributions to national liberation struggle. Creative artists should take a leaf from Mama's inspiring life and stand up against all oppression, repression, suppression, and violation of human rights and freedoms across the world. – ANC YL

Miriam Makeba

The Congress of South African Trade Unions joins the nation and the world in mourning the sad passing of Miriam Makeba. She was still singing the night she died. We send our condolences to her family, friends and millions of fans across the globe.

ANC mourns Miriam Makeba

The African National Congress (ANC) is deeply saddened to learn of the death of world-acclaimed and legendary South African singer Miriam Makeba. We pay homage to "Mama Africa" as we have affectionately known her. The ANC extends its condolences to her family, friends and relatives.

ANC President on Miriam Makeba

The ANC dips its banner in tribute to an African heroine, Miriam Zenzile Makeba, a freedom fighter and outstanding African cultural figure who passed away in Italy. The passing of this African songstress leaves a gaping hole in the cultural life of our country and the African continent. – Jacob Zuma

Collective Bargaining Conference

The South African Municipal Workers Union [SAMWU] will be holding its National Collective Bargaining Conference in Mpumalanga from the 11-13 November 2008 in preparation for wage demands for the 2009/10 financial year.

Masiphumelele shooting

Abdi Mubil, an Ethiopian man who had reintegrated from Soetwater, was shot dead in Masiphumelele on Saturday, a day before the Institute of Justice and Reconciliation was due to hand an award to the Masiphumelele Community Forum for facilitating return of residents and recovery of their looted possessions, after the May xenophobic attacks.

First day of voter registration

YCL welcomes the enthusiasm and excitement shown by especially the youth at voting stations countrywide on the first today of the IEC's voter registration weekend. YCL national and provincial leadership has been deployed to help mobilise.

Voter registration turn-out

The ANC Youth League calls on each young person of South Africa to make it his/her paramount task to ensure that at-least 5 fellow young people are registered for the 2009 elections, regardless of political affiliation and orientation.

Railways may come to a halt

UTATU and SATAWU are in dispute with Transnet Freight Rail for its breach of agreement on in-service training and “refreshers” for grades including train drivers. We demand that the company restores the status quo. If we have to strike, we will roll it out so that it really hurts, starting with the Coal Line.

COSATU on PUDEMO leadership arrests

The Congress of South African Trade Unions strongly condemns the arrest of leaders of PUDEMO and SWAYOCO, on their way to a march to the Prime Minister's office to deliver a petition, and demands their immediate and unconditional release. COSATU also supports SSN’s demands.

Disciplinary action on Professors

FXI is distressed by the University of KwaZulu/Natal's decision to institute disciplinary proceedings against two of the University's Professors, Professor of Physics Nithaya Chetty and Professor of Mathematics John van den Berg. – Full FXI argument in COSATU Today.

Mobilise SA on World Aids Day

COSATU President Sdumo Dlamini pledged COSATU to work with TAC, SANAC, business and others for a workplaces and community action month in support of HIV prevention and treatment, culminating in a 30-minute national work stoppage and dialogue at mid-day on 1 December – World Aids Day.

ICEM Boycotts Petro-Canada

The Presidium of ICEM gives full support to an international boycott of Petro-Canada products. The action is in support of 260 oil-refinery workers, members of CEP, who have been locked-out at a Petro-Canada refinery in Montréal, Québec since 17 November 2007.

PUDEMO leadership arrested

The Swaziland Solidarity Network (SSN) would like to inform the world of the arrest on 7 November 2008 of PUDEMO and SWAYOCO leadership and other comrades at the Mbabane old bus rank while preparing to embark on a march to the Prime Minister's office to deliver a petition.

Tsvangirai on Obama Victory

It gives me joy to congratulate Senator Barack Obama, on his election as President of the USA. I know that his historic victory has heartened millions. Zimbabweans appreciate the true value of a vote, the preciousness of a poll that is conducted openly and fairly, and a result that is respected by all. - MDC

Recent spate of violence

Violence has reared its ugly head again in Zimbabwe. Zanu PF has unleashed a new orgy of brutality and assaults across the whole country, in breach of the Memorandum of Understanding and the Global Political Agreement signed on 15 of September 2008. Zanu PF has killed the dialogue. - MDC

No More Congo War!

Join FOCAS in a march of protest against the continuing war in eastern Congo. Details:

• Date: Wednesday, 12 November 2008
• Time: from 09h00 to 13h00
• Venue: Assemble at Union Building in Pretoria
• Buses will be going from Wits University (at 07h30) and Yeoville (at 08h30)

So-called indefinite strike

The ZCTU would like to correct a story that has been appearing on online news. and to put it on record that ZCTU has NOT penciled action for 11 November 2008 and has never issued statements to that effect. When ZCTU decides to take any action workers will have been consulted through structures.

Breedevallei councillors

On 5 November 2008 ANC National Disciplinary Committee of Appeal confirmed a Western Cape DC decision to expel three Breedevallei councillors, Luvuyo Kelepu, Freddie Speelman and Bettie Fortuin, from the ANC with immediate effect, for acting against ANC in collaboration with opposition parties.

The Conventioners, Umsebenzi Online

SACP GS Blade Nzimande on several historical breakaways from the ANC including the latest one, the “Convention”, lessons to be drawn and urgent tasks of South African communists and all SACP structures. – Full text in COSATU Today.

Vavi message of solidarity to FEDUSA

On World AIDS Day, 1 December 2008 we stop work and observe 30 minutes of silence, part of 16 Days of Activism. We call on FEDUSA congress to declare Christmas a black Christmas. On 6-7 December we shall be at shopping malls for the Proudly South African campaign. – Full text in COSATU Today

Tsvangirai to Extraordinary Summit

MDC President Morgan Tsvangirai has left Zimbabwe to travel to South Africa and the region, ahead of Sunday's Extraordianary SADC Summit. Mr Tsvangirai has been forced by Zanu PF to travel on a temporary document. MDC condemns the lack of sincerity and good faith exhibited by Zanu PF.

Unity in fight against HIV and AIDS

NEHAWU North West and many other allied organization launched a De-stigmatization Campaign on 4 November 2008. The de-stigmatization campaign aims to educate workers about HIV and AIDS because ignorance is the root cause of stigmatization and discrimination.

Crisis and war in DRC

COSATU is alarmed at the tragic events unfolding in the DRC, which is close to a full-scale war that has caused massive loss of life and untold suffering to millions of ordinary Congolese. Africans deserve better; they deserve conditions of peace and democracy for development and progress to succeed.

Cash withdrawal limit, dolarisation

ZCTU has received with disgust the news that the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has decided not to remove cash withdrawal limits. ZCTU also says no to US-dolarisation and extension of USA into Zimbabwe. But if they want dolarisation, then the ZCTU is demanding that workers be paid in US dollars.

Address to NEHAWU Securities

COSATU General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi delivered a major speech to NEHAWU Securities in Johannesburg on 5 November 2008. The speech covers many issues including economic issues. The full text will be in COSATU Today.

ANCYL meeting with ABSA

ANCYL has met with an Absa executive, Mr. Makhosini Nkosi. The ANCYL accepts the bank’s assurances that no person, including Ms Wendy Luhabe, will be allowed to abuse Absa’s platforms or resources to advance the objectives of the “Shikota” party or any other organisation.

On Obama's Victory

MDC congratulates Obama, his family, his campaign staff and indeed the whole of America. John MacCain's instructive and inspiring. If in Africa, incumbents would would graciously depart from the seat of power, this would be a different continent, and indeed Zimbabwe would be a different place.

Artists in defence of ANC welcomed

The African National Congress welcomes the initiative by a number of artists to organise themselves into a grouping to mobilise support for the values, principles and programmes of the ANC, launched on 4 November 2008 in Newtown, Johannesburg.

Vote ANC for certainty and stability

ANC President Jacob Zuma is on a two-day visit to the province, part of the ANC's programme to engage with key stakeholders, who include communities, professionals, religious leaders, business and traditional leaders. - Full report in COSATU Today.

US Presidential Election

ANC extends warmest congratulations to Barack Obama on his victory in the US presidential election, confident that the Obama administration will work with international institutions and forums to ensure a peaceful resolution of conflict and a multilateral response to global challenges.

Congratulating Barack Obama

ANC YL congratulates Barack Obama for his election as President of the United States of America and hopes that his election indeed represents change as proclaimed throughout his campaign, such as an end to illegal wars and occupations, and to unjustified trade embargoes on any country in the world.

New Deputy Minister of Finance

COSATU congratulates Comrade Nhlanhla Nene on his appointment as deputy finance minister to continue his good work done as chairperson of the National Assembly's Finance Committee and to implement the policies adopted at the ANC Polokwane Conference and the Alliance Summit meetings.

Obama victory

COSATU congratulates Barrack Obama on his victory in the USA Presidential election. For an African-American candidate to be voted into the highest office by an electorate dominated by the descendents of those whose forefathers enslaved and disenfranchised black Americans is a huge step forward.

Proudly South African Campaign

Role players in the Western Cape will promote purchase of South African-made products at an Expo to be held on 17 and 18 November at Grand West Arena, including a conference to be held in the morning of 17 November 2008 to be attended by Public and Private-sector procurement Managers. - COSATU

Officials fly to Chile FIFPRO meet

South African Football Players Union [SAFPU] officials will few out today morning to attend the FIFPRO General Assembly which is scheduled for Santiago Chile from 6-10 November 2008. The assembly will deal with issues that affect the professional football players all over the world, in all aspects.

Defend the ANC Campaign

Prominent South African musicians and artists met in Newtown on 4 November 2008 to organise themselves under the banner, "Defend the ANC", and are working on a collaborative musical album as their first project. – ANC YL

ANC YL sends a strong warning to ABSA

ANC YL is aware that Wendy Luhabe, the main funder of the political rebel group, led by her husband Mbhazima Shilowa and Patrick Lekota, is using ABSA platforms to mobilise support for the rebel group. ABSA Chairperson Gill Marcus is co-hosting a bogus special luncheon for the rebel political group.

ANC President’s North West visit

The ANC President, Comrade Jacob Zuma, will be addressing mine workers and the rest of the poor working class at Impala South Freedom Park on 5th November 2008 from 16h30. COSATU North West will support and protect its leadership against any attack by the so-called Shikota party supporters.

SABC Terror Lekota Advertisement

The Progressive Youth Alliance wants to register its concern over the SABC's airing of an advertisement by Terror Lekota which is political in nature and seeks to attack the ANC-led Alliance and its leadership. This is contrary to IEC and ICASA regulations. We call on them to investigate.

Register now to vote

The Independent Electoral Commission will open all voting stations on the 8th - 9th November 2008 from 08h00 to 17h00. We appeal to our members and to all patriotic citizens to go and register in their voting stations and to check their registration details. – Full text by Jacob Zuma in COSATU Today.

ANCYL delegation hosted by ZINASU

Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) hosted the Africa National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) delegation to Zimbabwe over the weekend, in Harare. We demand that SADC, the guarantors of Zimbabwe's political agreement take decisive action at the forthcoming Heads of States summit.

Lekota, George duck disciplinaries

Former ANC National Chairperson Mosiuoa Lekota and former Amathole regional chairperson Mluleki George resigned membership of the ANC on receipt of their charge sheets, Lekota on Friday 31 October, and George on Sunday 2 November and shortly before they were due to appear before the ANC NDC.

Public Utterances of Patrick Lekota

To Jody Kollapen, Chairperson, South African Human Rights Commission; Dear Chairperson, The ANCYL requests the SAHRC to make an urgent intervention on the recurrent statements and public utterances of Mr. Patrick Lekota, the founder member of the splinter rebel political movement.

Report on voter preferences

From a survey by Lawrence Schlemmer Markdata, July 2008. The survey predicts the following party outcomes in the 2009 national elections: ANC, 70-71%; DA, 20-21%; ID, 2-3%, IFP, 2-3%, UDM, +/- 1%; ACDP, +/- 1%, PAC, FF+, AZAPO, and Others, all less than 1%.

ANC Should Not Engage Splinter Group

We call upon the leadership of the ANC not to legitimise this splinter group by engaging it as suggested by the ANC deputy president, Kgaleme Mothlanthle. They left the ANC as individuals and if they were to be accommodated back into the movement, it must be on the basis of their individual membership. - FAWU

SAHRC must take action on Pityana

FAWU calls on the SA Human Rights Commission to investigate assertions, the latest being yesterday at the convention of the disgruntled, by Professor Barney Pityana, Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa, implying that the ANC President is guilty of rape despite his acquittal by a court of law.

State of Zimbabwe Education

Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) is organising national protests to push for the opening of tertiary institutions and will host International Students Day on 17 November under the theme "Save our Education, Save our Future", will engage Parliament and will continue to provide platforms.

Latest Political Developments

Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) regrets that the ongoing impasse was not resolved at the meeting held in Harare with the SADC Troika on 27 October 2008. The Summit must comprehensively address all the current outstanding issues, and not only the allocation of Ministries.

FSCC Free State Province

The Financial Sector Campaigns Coalition jointly with the Credit Bureau Association and the SACP convened a provincial workshop on the provision of the National Credit Act as part of the consumer education in society and the role of National Credit Regulator and other related authorities in general.

Lekota's dissident group

SACCAWU Congress resolved not to legitimise activities of this splinter group and to call on all our members not to respond to the so-called National Convention initiated by Lekota and others, and calls upon all its members and supporters to register for the 2009 general elections and vote for the ANC.

Patrick Lekota and SAHRC

Lekota continues to portray a picture that the ANC YL and the ANC will kill people. He is in essence accusing the ANC YL of an intention to literally kill people. The ANC YL will approach the South African Human Rights Commission to report Lekota for accusing our organization of being potential murderers.

NEHAWU NEC

The National Executive Committee NEHAWU met on 30 October 2008 and considered the unfolding international and national political situation, as well as the looming round of wage negotiations in different sectors in which we are organising. Full report in COSATU Today.

The ‘SA National Convention’

South Africans will see through the so-called ‘National Convention’ being convened this weekend by a clique of disgruntled former ANC members unable to accept the results of a democratic process. COSATU has questions for these born-again democrats. See them in full in COSATU Today.

ANC YL will not attend the convention

ANC Youth League will not to attend the Convention with dissidents Patrick Lekota and Mbhazima Sam Shilowa, other liars and angry people, in Sandton, but will attend the ANC Rally in Jabulane on Sunday 2 November 2008 at 11h00 with Jacob Zuma; and other ANC events around the country this weekend.

To Convener of National Convention

SATAWU has received your invitation to attend the convention. SATAWU will continue to mobilize its members against your convention regardless of what emerges out of it including the establishment of a rival federation. We shall redouble our efforts to ensure that the ANC retains its two thirds majority.

ANC YL visits Botswana and Zimbabwe

ANC YL President Cde Julius Malema will lead a delegation of ANC YL NEC members to Botswana on 31 October to 2 November 2008 hosted by the Botswana Democratic Party Youth Wing. ANC YL Deputy President, Cde Andile Lungisa will lead a delegation to youth formations in Zimbabwe.

Lekota and George must account

POPCRU would like to reiterate the call made by SASFU that both former chiefs of the SANDF, Mosiuoa Lekota and Mluleki George, should tell the country about the whereabouts of the weapons that disappeared during their tenure. The disappearance bordered on treason and coup d’état plotting.

Saving Our Planet

Radical Left Network presents "Capitalist Barbarism or Eco-Socialism?" by Claire Ceruti, and panel discussions. Details:

• Date: 8 November 2008 (Saturday)
• Time: 09h00-17h00
• Venue: Community House, Salt River, Cape Town

Coverage of ANC renegades

YCL is perturbed by the all-out media coverage that the renegades within the ANC and the Alliance are receiving. They are enjoying prime time and prime position that even our country's President, Kgalema Motlanthe, does not occupy. We call for fair reporting in this time of elections.

Give credit to COSATU and the SACP

Exchange controls played a role in insulating South Africa from global financial crisis. FAWU believes that the country is largely insulated from the global financial crisis is because of COSATU and the SACP's relentless opposition to the relaxation of exchange controls over the last twelve years.

Dispute on Discrimination

COSATU Western Cape is appalled at the discrimination that Southern Wind Shipyard has applied to different categories of workers in respect of the payment of bonuses. We completely align ourselves to the workers on strike at this company, who are facing and fighting this apartheid-style discrimination.

Broadcast Digital Migration

Digital Migration (BDM) is the process of converting the broadcast of television broadcasting signals from analogue to digital technology. In SA the switch-on will start on 1 November 2008 and the analogue switch-off on 1 November 2011. Digital signalling will free a lot of frequency spectrum. - CWU

Free Basic Electricity and Renewables

On Thursday 30 October 2008, Earthlife Africa Johannesburg and the Anti-Privatisation Forum (APF) will be marching on the Department of Minerals & Energy, Eskom, and the City of Johannesburg. The march will start at 9:30am at Beyers Naude Square/Library Gardens, Market and Rissik Streets.

President Mbeki's Pledge of Allegiance

FAWU welcomes former President, Thabo Mbeki's pledge of loyalty to the ANC and of distancing himself from the rich ANC renegades Shilowa and Lekota. We will proceed with our program of addressing general meetings of our members in factories, on farms, on board fishing vessels and other workplaces.

Eskom risk a wave of strike protests

NUMSA chief shop steward Phutas Tseki warned that Eskom should brace itself for protests unless it discontinues its training college outsourcing project. The union also believes that the state has the ability to invest resources in training and development of employees instead of disposing the colleges.

Farewell to a Red Rose

The YCL in the Northern Cape has learned with sadness of the death of its member Cde Nontsikelelo Sandi, who passed away last Thursday 23 October 2008, and pays tribute to this red rose that grew from the working class slums of Kuyasa Township. We send sincere condolences to her family.

NW Provincial Shop Stewards Council

COSATU in the North West will be holding its Provincial Shop Stewards Council. We do not agree with the notion that white people will go out to kill, assault and shoot, and the state suspects that they are out of their minds. COSATU calls all its members to protect the federation against hooligan splitters.

Convenor of National Convention

Shilowa proclaimed himself -appointed Convenor of the Convention. Where was democracy at that moment? I noticed the opposite. Cde Shilowa now mentions other reasons for such a gathering, realising how stupid it was to resign for the recall of Cde Mbeki. - S’dumo Dlamini, COSATU President.

Former Minister of Defence Lekota

As Defence Force representatives, SASFU warns against opportunism by senior statesmen at the expense of citizens. The power-hungry Lekota and George were prepared to issue instructions for the army to fire live bullets on workers. They defended the arms deal and violated the Freedom Charter.

Picket of Swaziland Consulate

Picket, "With or without a King". The picket will be the third in three weeks. Details:

• Date: 31 October 2008 (Friday)
• Time: 12h30
• Venue: Braamfontein Centre, Jorrissen Street, Johannesburg

Dirty tactics at Morningside

DENOSA is utterly dismayed at the dirty tactics applied by authorities at Morningside Medi-Clinic regarding the viral haemorrhagic fever. The possibility exists that this virus could be lying dormant in the corridors of the hospital and that exposes our members to serious occupational hazards.

Best wishes to matric candidates

SADTU would like to convey best wishes for success to the 2008 matric candidates. Our challenges in South Africa, now largely addressed, have been over implementation of OBE. We are convinced that well-trained and motivated educators are the key to the delivery of quality education in our schools.

Rise in unemployment

COSATU is concerned at the rise in SA’s official unemployment rate, and will be more determined than ever to commit the government to monetary policies that focus on combating poverty and unemployment. Total number of people employed is 13,655,000, with 4,122,000 officially unemployed.

Terror Lekota’s national convention

Both Lekota and George, failed leadership of the Defence Force, have expressed categorically their hatred of ordinary workers and poor people of SA in our meetings with them. They were prepared to issue instructions for the army to fire live bullets on the workers during the public sector strike. - SASFU

ANC NWC, 27 October 2008

NWC condemns, unequivocally, any acts of disruption that interfere with or impair the rights of others to assemble peacefully. In that spirit, the NWC calls on all members and supporters of the ANC to allow those who hold dissenting views to meet and proceed with their business without let or hindrance.

Governance

ANC would like to place on record that at no stage has it mandated any provincial structures to run provincial governments from the organisation's offices as claimed by a Sunday newspaper report. ANC firmly believes in the adherence to the PFMA and MFMA by its deployed cadres in all levels of government.

US Blockade against Cuba

Against the UN’s condemnation of the genocidal policy of US imperialist aggression, the US blockade is irrational, immoral, cruel, and vindictive. The US is hell-bent on increasing harm, suffering and inducing apartheid-type consequences against the Cuban people and their country's sovereignty. - SACP

Passing of Comrade Billy Nair

The SACP notes with sadness the passing of veteran Comrade Billy Nair, pioneering trade unionist, Communist, and servant of ANC, MK, UDF and Natal Indian Congress and expresses its condolences to the bereaved. Billy Nair is to be given an official provincial government funeral on Thursday.

Dangerous gutter journalism

ANCYL is outraged at the desperate attempts by The Citizen newspaper to project its President, Julius Malema as a war monger. This is irresponsible journalism. It is also extremely dangerous. The ANCYL President actually spoke for democracy, and against a culture of entitlement to leadership positions.

Stop restructuring and privatising

POPCRU, at its Extended National Executive Committee meeting on 25 - 26 October 2008, resolved to oppose the current restructuring processes currently underway in the South Africa Police Service, and the privatisation and outsourcing processes in the Department of Correctional Services.

Intimidation in Limpopo

NEHAWU condemns the bullying and intimidation of its Branch Leadership at Mokopane Hospital who were charged with misconduct and threatened with suspension by the management and the MEC, for raising issues related to delivery of quality services to the public.

DENOSA NEC, 24 -26 October 2008

The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa resolved to dispute the irregularities and delays of the Occupational Specific Dispensation (OSD) salary structure signed in September 2007, and also to dispute the increase of nurse registration fees by the South African Nursing Council (SANC).

Mineworker dies at Angloplatinum

A mineworker lost his life at Angloplatinum’s Rustenburg Platinum Mine Turfontein shaft this morning after he was electrocuted underground. NUM passes its condolences to the bereaved and calls on members at the mine to observe a day of mourning. As the festive season nears, fatalities increase.

President’s speech, SADTU NGC Declaration

These documents, containing the full resolutions of the SADTU National General Council of 22-24 October 2008, held in Irene, Gauteng, will be published in COSATU Today.

YCL on Tribal Taxes

YCL rejects the payment of tribal taxes in traditional areas. We believe that history teaches us that the model of self enrichment and accumulation by traditional leaders will always leads to rupture. We call on the rural poor and the youth in particular to challenge this feudal mode of exploitation.

FF Youth and Corporal Punishment

ANC YL notes that the Freedom Front Plus Youth is calling for the re-introduction of corporal punishment. The insistence that the ANC YL is violent by the FF+ Youth is swart-gevaar, wherein everything black is associated with violence. The Youth League is against violence.

ANC will remain a beacon of hope

Polokwane represented a pro-poor stance of the ANC, and this is the context of the Terror Lekota breakaway. Why is the NDR their newfound swear word? The NDR is not a Marxist or communist term. They complain that that the ANC is dominated by COSATU and SACP. – ANC Today

ANC mourns Billy Nair

The African National Congress is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Comrade Billy Nair, a stalwart and an underground leader of the movement. Comrade Nair was a founding member of the United Democratic Front (UDF) and member of Umkonto we Sizwe. He was also imprisoned in Robben Island.

NPA and SAP Amendment Bills

The ANC welcomes the dissolution of the DSO and reaffirms the central elements of the Polokwane resolution that there be one police service, that the DSO be dissolved. We note that this bill does not include prosecutors in the same unit, as it comprises the rights of the accused to a fair trial.

Swaziland from a wider eye

PUDEMO heard with dismay utterances to the effect that the Swazi state will and must ruthlessly fight and 'throttle' those with diverging views, including their families and relatives. Most shockingly this speech came from the throne, urging citizens to take up arms. Full statement in COSATU Today.

Competition Act Amendment welcome

FAWU is elated that the Competition Amendment Bill has been passed by the National Assembly and will soon be signed into law by the President. Company bosses must now think twice before engaging in any cartels or shameless anti-competitive conduct to rob the poor of access to basic foodstuffs.

Star article on ‘Malema results’

As the YCL we condemn the publication of the matric results of Cde Malema in today's edition of The Star newspaper, which wants to silence and isolate the ANC YL President from his core constituency and the ANC YL itself. A leader's educational intellect is organically cultivated. Umuntu ufunda azafe.

Disbandment of the Scorpions

The Scorpions became a tool to settle political scores as with the Special Browse Mole Report and the persecution of ANC President Jacob Zuma. They neglected their mandate of fighting organized crime. They became a law unto to themselves. The new unit will be accountable to the people of South Africa. - YCL

SADTU unites to support the ANC

The SADTU NGC met and resolved to support the Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign, to organisational renewal, to support for the ANC and the Alliance, and to collect mandates for the 2009 salary negotiations. The following comrades were elected unopposed:

• President: Comrade Thobile Ntola
• Deputy President: Comrade Bonakele Majuba
• National Treasurer: Comrade Fritz Steenkamp
• Deputy General Secretary: Comrade Mugwena Maluleke

Passing of Scorpions Bills

COSATU applauds passage of SA Police Service Amendment Bill and National Prosecuting Authority Amendment Bill restoring necessary separation of functions between investigation and prosecution. Scorpions were diverted away from fighting crime and towards political persecution of individuals.

Swaziland is ‘Without a King’

An open meeting is being held today as a report-back session from the recently held Southern Africa Social Forum in Manzini, Swaziland. Details:

• Date: Friday 24 October 2008
• Time: 10h00
• Venue: COSATU Archives, 1st Floor, COSATU House
• Picket: 12h30 Braamfontein Centre, Jorrissen Street

Death of Comrade Billy Nair

The YCL has learned with shock of the untimely death of Rivonia Trialist and stalwart of our movement, Cde Billy Nair. Cde Nair represented the true generation and founders of the UDF which dedicated itself to building a strong ANC and Alliance, with the purpose of fighting poverty and unemployment.

Billy Nair, 1929-2008

COSATU mourns the sad passing of Comrade Billy Nair, founder member of SACTU. We dip our banners in honour of a relentless fighter for workers, his country and the national democratic revolution. We send our condolences to his family, friends and countless comrades.

WIVL goes electoral

The WIVL has decided to contests the 2009 elections at national level. Enormous resources are needed for our campaign of exposure of parliament, while at the same time building structures of resistance to capitalist exploitation, primarily branches of the WIVL, across the country.

Education for People’s Power

DITSELA invites you to a seminar on Popular Education & Democracy in South Africa Today. Details:

• Date: 31 October 2008
• Time: Contact Makhi or Thozama on 011 331 0470
• Venue: DITSELA Workers Education Institute, 24 Kruis, Cnr Marshall Street, Jhb.

Appeals for tolerance

The ANC in Gauteng calls on all political parties to conduct the 2009 elections with dignity and tolerance. The ANC will not be provoked by the high level of intolerance and attempt to hijack ANC structures by the Terror-Shilowa party. The ANC remains the principal agent of social change.

Rise in vehicle repossessions

COSATU is shocked by today’s report that vehicle repossessions by banks are estimated to be running at 6 000-7 000 a month. The main reason for this can only be the relentless rise in interest rates, as a consequence of the Reserve Bank’s misguided inflation-targeting strategy.

T-shirts and cult of personality

COSATU and the ANC wish to clarify remarks attributed in the media to the COSATU General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi, about the wearing of T-shirts bearing the image of political leaders, which were misreported by the SABC and some other media to give the false impression.

BHP Billiton-Rio Tinto merger approval

The Competition Commission has recommended to the Competition Tribunal the approval of the merger arising from the takeover bid in which BHP Billiton intends to acquire Rio Tinto, subject to BHP Billiton divesting of the interest to be acquired by it from Rio Tinto relating to Coega Aluminium Smelter Project

SA workers productive but lowly paid

COSATU welcomes the findings of a survey which reveals that South Africans are as productive as workers in Germany, Brazil, France and the United States. Yet workers’ share in the national income has declined since 1981 up to the present time, while employers’ profits continue to increase.

Shop steward skills development

Shanta Reddy Attorneys has started a series of workshops aimed at imparting representation skills to shop stewards and organisers. Contact Mandla Sithole, 031 202 3350. before 31 October 2008. Topic One is Grievances

• Date: 17 November 2008
• Times: (repeating) 08h30, 11h30 and 14h30
• Venue: 108 Helen Joseph Road, Glenwood, Durban

Press Freedom

A Weekender debate on Press Freedom, with Zwelinzima Vavi, Jessie Duarte, Karima Brown and Stephen Grootes will take place as follows:

• Date: 12 November 2008
• Time: 18h00 for 18h30
• Venue: Arts Centre Auditorium, University of Johannesburg, Kingsway Campus, Auckland Park

Abahlali to the Mayor

Shack-dwellers of Khayelitsha note that people who are living at informal settlements within the City of Cape Town are ignored and undermined by the City. All people that are living at informal settlements should be recognized as legal. Informal settlements should be upgraded where they are.

Current Political Developments

The Provincial Working Committee of the SACP in Free State Province noted with disbelief and outrage the resignation from the organization by its former member Mzwandile Hleko. It remembered the horrible and ugly years of the reign of tribalism of Terror Lekota’s era as the premier of the Free State.

The ANC dissidents must go

The SACP in the Western Cape is conscious that the ANC confronts serious challenges. The 1996 class project entrenched itself in the Western Cape within the provincial ANC government and the ANC as an organisation. It has to create divisions and factions since it cannot survive without these divisions.

Medium Term Budget

NEHAWU welcomes yesterday’s medium-term budget focus on health and education and the funds allocated therefore to address the challenges in these sectors. The additional R 170 billion for public spending and the prioritization of health, education, infrastructure is very much welcome.

People’s Budget Response

The People’s Budget Coalition, comprising the SACC, SANGOCO and COSATU, noted the Minister of Finance’s Medium-term budget policy statement. The PBC looks at fiscal policy from the perspective of the poor majority. Judged from that perspective, the Minister’s statement is disappointing.

Input to SADTU NGC

COSATU General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi, addressed the SADTU NGC. Full text in COSATU Today.

SADTU elects new President

The NGC of SADTU, meeting in Irene, held elections today to fill the following vacancies. Both candidates were returned unopposed:

• President: Comrade Thobile Ntola
• Deputy General Secretary: Comrade Mugwena Maluleke

Woolworths strike settled

Duly mandated representatives of SACCAWU and Woolworths signed an agreement which marks an end to a strike over organisational rights. SACCAWU accordingly calls off the consumer boycott. Union members will be returning to work from Friday the 24th of October.

Shilowa’s divisive deeds

The Progressive Youth Alliance of ANCYL, COSAS, SASCO and YCL in Gauteng welcomes as good riddance the political opportunism displayed of former Premier Mbhazima Shilowa. He is leaving alone, and will get no support from the progressive youth of this Province. Full statement in COSATU Today.

ANC YL meets FF+ Youth

The African National Congress Youth League and Freedom Front Plus Youth met in Johannesburg on 21 October 2008 to discuss a variety of issues, including racism and youth, affirmative action, mother tongue education, democracy and nation building, and corporal punishment.

Morgan Tsvangirai Passport Application

President Tsvangirai neither refused nor boycotted the meeting in Swaziland. It is Zanu PF which stopped him from attending this meeting. Meaningful negotiations cannot proceed while Zanu PF continues to hold Mr Tsvangirai hostage and prisoner. As the saying goes, "Prisoners don't negotiate."

Two Rivers prepares for strike

NUM has declared a dispute at Two Rivers mine near Lydenburg over a C-band bargaining unit and has begun marshalling its forces for possible strike action. The mine is jointly owned by African Rainbow Minerals and Impala. It mines platinum and employs over 800 workers.

AbM Western Cape March

Informal settlements will join Abahlali baseMjondolo of Western Cape to march from SiteB to Stocks & Stocks Local Municipality Offices. Details:

• Date: Wednesday 22 October, 2008
• Time: 11h00-14h00
• Assemble: In between Site-B Day Hospital and Train Station. March to Stocks & Stocks

Tsvangirai in Marondera and Manica

MDC President Tsvangirai is to address report-back rallies in Marondera, Rusape and Mutare this weekend. The rallies are a feedback to the people of Zimbabwe on what has transpired since the signing of the historic political settlement on 15 September 2008.

Five hundred observe mourning

500 mineworkers are observing a day of mourning at Anglo Coal’s Greenside Colliery, 10Km from Witbank, after a worker was electrocuted underground on Saturday. The memorial service was held in the open after the company locked the hall. NUM condemns Anglo Coal’s insensitivity.

Masiphumelele Stands Up for Peace

Following false rumours that a foreigner was among the murderers of a child, there was a Peace Rally at Masiphumelele Community Hall on Friday 17 October. The Peace Rally in May cooled xenophobic tension and marked Masiphumelele as a place that resisted violence that swept the Western Cape.

Health Minister’s Commitment

NEHAWU welcomes the statement by the Minister of Health Barbara Hogan that she is committing herself to turn around the department of health from its current dilapidated status to a department that is competent, transparent and deliver best service to South Africans.

Civilian and Military Blur

MSF presentation hosted by the University of the Witwatersrand. Details:

• Date: 23rd October 2008
• Time: 10h00 to 12h00 – with light snacks provided
• Venue: The Seminar Room, South West Engineering Building, East Campus

ANC Regional Councils

As part of its campaign to attain victory in next year's elections, the African National Congress is happy to report success in its provincial mobilisation programme. These meetings of our NEC cadres with Regional Rouncils is to ensure that people are informed of broader challenges confronting the organisation.

ANC YL welcomes Alliance Summit

The ANC Youth League is convinced that the leadership of the ANC-led alliance is best positioned and well suited to intensify programmes for developmental growth of the economy. The summit resolutions are primarily guided by the alliance components, and not blindly imported from elsewhere.

SACCAWU 9th Conference Declaration

The full declaration will be published in COSATU Today. NOBs elected are as follows:

• Amos Mothapo – President
• Louisa Thipe - 1st Deputy President
• Angie Phetlhe - 2nd Deputy President
• Bones Skulu – General Secretary
• Mduduzi Mbongwe – Deputy General Secretary
• Alois Gumede - National Treasurer

Alliance Economic Summit

The ANC, SACP and COSATU Alliance Economic Summit met on 17-18 October 2008 to consolidate the economic policy perspectives that will inform our common election manifesto as we move towards an ANC-led election campaign. The full Declaration will be published in COSATU Today.

JZ in NY

New York University’s Africa House Presents Jacob Zuma, President of the African National Congress, Former Deputy President of South Africa. Details:

• Date: 24 October 2008 (Friday)
• Time: 17h00 – 18h30
• Venue: 60 Washington Square South, Kimmel RM 914, New York University, USA

Esther Barsel Memorial

[From SACP Jhb Central Branch] The memorial service of the late Cde Esther Barsel will be held as follows:

• Date: 19 October 2008 (Sunday)
• Time: 14h30
• Venue: Womens Jail (Constitutional Hill), Braamfontein, Johannesburg

Eradication of Poverty Day

DENOSA notes the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, October 17, 2008. Poverty is a violation of human rights. Most patients come from poverty-stricken backgrounds. Poverty impacts directly on health and well-being. We call for a national poverty eradication plan.

Build Street Committees

Build Street Committees, Build People's Power: Defend the unity of the ANC, defend the unity of the Alliance. SACP Red October campaign will also be a campaign for an overwhelming ANC electoral victory in 2009. Umsebenzi Online, Volume 7, No. 18, 15 October 2008. Full text in COSATU Today.

Sies, Moseneke!

Senior government technocrats oppose the real and genuine demands of ordinary workers. These big-bellied buffoons are earning millions of rands and live luxurious lives filled with opulence, abundance and unparallelled wealth. This will create a fertile ground for a revolution from below. - POPCRU

Pay hike for state officials

NEHAWU condemns and opposes the proposed 11% pay hike for state officials and sees this as a slap in the face for South Africans who are struggling to afford basic necessities. The state officials are not there to enrich themselves but to serve the public.

Only united can ANC serve the poor

We have suspended factionalist members in order to unite and refocus our organisation; they will undergo disciplinary processes. The legacy of those who run away will always be questionable. We will always wonder why they joined the ANC in the first place. – ANC President Jacob Zuma

NUMSA 8th Congress Declaration

Delegates to the 8th National Congress of the National Metalworkers of South Africa representing more than 216 000 members, do hereby declare and make the following declaration... President - Cedric Gina; General Secretary – Irvin Jim. Full text of declaration in COSATU Today.

PSL bigwigs grab R55 million

YCL rejects the reported R55 million pay for PSL bigwigs, namely Dr Irvin Khoza, Kaizer Motaung, Trevor Phillips et al. This demonstrates how self accumulation can drive an asset of the working class and the poor players out of their hands. YCL with SAFPU will consider organising a boycott.

R55 million for PSL bosses

SAFPU notes with disgust the Premier Soccer League decision to pay the negotiating team R55 million bonuses. Football players are still earning less than five thousand rand a month. SAFPU is totally against this self-enrichment by PSL officials while players are suffering.

Workshop on Worker Safety

South Durban Community Environmental Alliance invites you to a workshop to discuss the incidents and accidents which impact on residents and workers in South Durban area. Details:

• Date: 8 November 2008
• Time: 09h00 – 13h00
• Venue: Miriam Cele, Diakonia Council of Churches, Diakonia Ave

Boycott, go-slow on Swaziland

COSATU, together with its affiliates and its working-class and Civil Society allies, has organised a week of boycott, go-slow and non-handling of goods to Swaziland, to protest against lack of democracy there. This week of multiple actions commences on 27 October 2008 and continues until 1 November 2008.

Mere Analysts

Opposition political parties are always on Radio and TV Talk-Shows giving scholarly analysis of the ANC and how best it should resolve its problems. Recently these ‘political analysts’ who are actually leaders of political parties have ululated the possibility of a new political party. - Benzi ka-Soko, POPCRU

Dealing with Lekota & Co

ANC will take disciplinary action against any member who mobilises for the formation of a new organisation in opposition to the ANC and will proceed with disciplinary proceedings against Cdes Mosiuoa Lekota and Mluleki George as agreed in the NWC. – full text in COSATU Today

Lekota and cronies

We reject the notion promoted by the latest renegade Shilowa that we follow a “popcorn” political culture of the United States and elect the President of the Republic as an exercise to divide and weaken our liberation movement. Lekota and Shilowa are in the same league as Savimbi and Dlakama. - FAWU

From working class hero, to zero

Shilowa had become a capitalist activist and a champion of the 1996 antirevolutionary class project. NUM calls on all members of the working class to disassociate themselves from this mob whose agenda is to pursue political patronage at all costs including at the cost of principles.

Former SATAWU President, Shilowa

SATAWU regrets the resignation of its former president from the ANC and as a leader of our movement. The question is why was democracy not under threat when he was chairperson and premier of Gauteng? This is the height of hypocrisy and indicative of a comrade that should never have been trusted.

Mbhazima blue

Mbhazima Shilowa and his ilk are now like any other citizen who has to endure the heavy traffic jams without blue lights. These comrades have left the ANC by choice and are now a disgruntled brigade who still think that to be a leader in the ANC is a personal entitlement. - COSATU Gauteng

Shilowa resignation

We who know him well know that by dumping the ANC he is not acting in a principled fashion as he claims. This is all about serving a disappointed Shilowa’s political ambitions and nothing else. His biggest problem has always been his elastic ambitions and a huge ego. - COSATU

To POPCRU National Crime Summit

The struggle against crime is a struggle to tackle the national, class and gender contradictions in society. The rebels have not caused a crisis in our country. The initial priority focus for street committees must be on crime, but they must tackle many other problems. - SACP - full text in COSATU Today.

Protest at SA Breweries

COSATU protests at attempts by SAB to stop the banning of shebeens in our communities through the new laws. They are opposed to banning it because they sell 65% of their beer though shebeens. Shebeens continue to play a huge role in the decline of the social fabric of our society.

Rank Steward killed

The SATAWU National Office Bearers and the Gauteng Provincial Office Bearers condemns in the strongest terms the brutal assassination of one of our most loyal and trusted cadres, comrade Malaza on 10 October 2008.

Africa Human Rights Day seminar

HURISA cordially invites you to the commemoration of Africa Human Rights Day. Details:

• Date: 21 October 2008
• Time: 09h30 – 15h30
• Venue: Human Rights House, corner St Andrews & York Streets, Parktown, Jhb
• Refreshments will be served

SASF is going on

The organisers would like to take this opportunity to reassure ALL colleagues and partners in the struggle that intended to attend the forum that it is going on as planned. The organisers have secured an alternative venue for the forum. - Swaziland Economic Justice Network (SEJN), 14 Oct

Swazi government ban on SASF

PUDEMO is aware that meetings were held with police earlier in the year where the regime granted that the forum be held only after the national elections, to which the organizers agreed. PUDEMO calls for civil society to take drastic steps and implement socio-economic sanctions against the Swazi leadership.

Banning of SASF

Swaziland Solidarity Network (SSN) learnt with disgust of the tinkhundla regime's banning of Southern Africa Social Forum Conference. We condemn this backward and oppressive behaviour of Mswati and urge all democracy-loving people to continue with the fight for the liberation of Swaziland. - 14 Oct

Memo to the Swazi Consulate

We demand unconditional withdrawal of the ban on the SA Social Forum and for the monarchy to meet all the demands of the Swazi people for democracy and the unbanning of political parties. We call on SADC to fire Mswati, who chosen to bash the people he is supposed to protect. - COSATU, 14 Oct

CEPPWAWU response to current affairs

Current developments dictate that all our structures from national to locals, must rise above the sinister plan to destabilise and defocus us during this critical moment of preparations for the 2009 elections. We must also fully support our fellow workers in SACCAWU.

Comrade Blade Nzimande

We are aware as the YCL that Justice Pitso, former Provincial Secretary of the SACP in Limpopo, is part of the Terror Lekota charade that intends to build a new political party, but are hell-bent to destroy the SACP and the Alliance before they leave these structures. They will not succeed.

Lies and innuendos

The renewed attack on our General Secretary must be understood within a broader offensive against the SACP. It is a follow-up operation by backup foot soldiers of a failed smear campaign by Willie Madisha and his masters. The trust and confidence to our GS is always confirmed. - SACP KZN

Lekota and George

The ANC National Working Committee (NWC), meeting in Bloemfontein today (13 October 2008), has decided to summarily suspend the ANC membership of Mosiuoa Lekota and Mluleki George with immediate effect. – 13 Oct

SACCAWU, Woolworths seek solution

After more than three weeks of striking at Woolworths, the company agreed to meet with the SACCAWU to seek a resolution to the current strike. The strike will continue and remain firm. The parties agreed they would revert back to each other after consultations with their principals.

Mineworker dies at Kloof

Another mineworker has died, this time at the Goldfields-owned Kloof mine, last night, after a rockfall. NUM passes its condolences to the bereaved family. We reiterate our call for the release of the Presidential Safety Audit Report ordered by the former President in October last year.

In COSATU Today

Speeches to NUMSA 8th Congress:

• Zwelinzima Vavi, COSATU GS
• Blade Nzimade, SACP GS
• Jacob Zuma, ANC President

NUMSA 8th Congress 3rd Day

Highlights, 15 October 2008:

• M. Mdladlana, Minister of Labour
• M. Mpahlwa, Trade and Industry
• A. Kgobe, NIC
• S. Nondwangu, Secretary

Big Sunday Rally in Zimbabwe

Forty thousand turned up at Highfields, Harare, to hear MDC’s President Tsvangirai explain the deadlocked power-sharing negotiations and MDC’s rejection of the unilateral gazetting of ministers by Robert Mugabe.

SACCAWU Congress Programme

SACCAWU’s 9th National Congress is taking place as follows:

• Arrival and Registration: 14 October 2008
• Congress: 15-18 October 2008
• Venue: Birchwood Hotel, Boksburg

Labour Court Order

SACCAWU is obliged to make a statement to call on members on strike at Woolworths to comply with the terms of the Labour Court order and the prevailing picketing rules as established by CCMA and to ensure that no conduct of strikers is in breach of the Labour Court order and/or the Picketing Rules.

YCL Gauteng PWC

Gauteng YCL held its scheduled and ordinary Provincial Working Committee meeting over the weekend and discussed the legacy of former President Mbeki, Lekota's splinter group, the Treasury, the SABC, the 2009 general elections, and the higher education crisis. Full report in COSATU Today.

NUMSA 8th Congress 2nd Day

Highlights, 14 October 2008:

• J. Zuma, ANC President
• Z. Vavi, COSATU GS
• S. Nondwangu, GS
• B. Msibi, DGS
• P. Shiburi, Treasurer

Mugabe's Cabinet gazette

The Zimbabwe National Students Union is totally outraged by Mugabe's lack of political will to assist the nation in finding a lasting solution to the crisis bedevilling our country. He announced a new cabinet list without agreement and due consultation with the other partners in the all inclusive government. - ZINASU

Oil Summit

This summit takes place in a time of the highest rise in crude oil prices. Poor people have suffered the most as the increased oil price oil has led to soaring food prices. This has impacted particularly harshly on the masses in the developing countries. – CEPPWAWU. Full speech in COSATU Today.

Anti-War Coalition clarifies

The Anti-War Coalition wishes to clarify that the statements criticizing the SACP and COSATU leadership during the protests against the USS Theodore Roosevelt were the views solely of the AWC and its supporters and not of Earthlife Africa or its Cape Town co-ordinator.

Rustenburg Regional Summit

There will be a Regional Alliance Summit on 15 October 2008 at Rustenburg Civic Centre. Preparatory to the summit, on the 13 October 2008 there will be a Regional Alliance Secretariat meeting, and on 14 October 2008 a bilateral meeting between COSATU and the Moses Kotane District of the SACP.

Collapse of Zimbabwe education

The announcement that Grade 7 students will not sit their exams is proof of the degeneration of the state. The University of Zimbabwe has not reopened. In the majority of schools, students have not attended classes for the whole year. This is a measure of the grandiose failure of the regime. - Tendai Biti, MDC Secretary-General

Zanu PF's midnight ambush

The MDC dismisses the Zanu PF's unilaterally gazetted wish list of ministries, which is a betrayal of the wishes, expectations and aspirations of the majority of Zimbabweans. MDC calls on the mediator, SADC, the AU and the international community at large to help support and protect Zimbabweans.

Growth of UIF

NEHAWU welcomes the news that there has been growth in the number of employers who have registered their employees for the UIF and that more domestic workers are registered with the fund as they are one of the vulnerable groups of workers that gets exploited.

NUMSA 8th Congress 1st Day

Highlights:

• M. Malentacchi, International
• M. Tom, President’s Address
• S. Nondwangu, Secretariat
• B. Nzimande, SACP

NUMSA 8th National Congress

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) 8th National Congress starts at Emerald Casino Resort in Vanderbijlpark, Sedibeng from 13-16 October 2008. Outgoing President Mtutuzeli Tom will deliver the welcome. ANC President Jacob Zuma will deliver a keynote address.

CWUSA Leads Africa’s Musicians

The Creative Workers Union of South Africa (CWUSA) proudly hosted the Federation of International Musicians Congress in Balalaika Hotel, Sandton, from 1-3 October 2008, and will host the FIM Africa Committee (FAC) Conference in Durban from 4-6 December 2008.

COSATU Mpumalanga PEC

COSATU Mpumalanga held a Provincial Executive Committee meeting on 7-8 October 2008 attended by affiliated unions from all sectors and took decisions relating to T Mbeki and M Lekota, and for dismissal of P Dexter from MEGA, and to work tirelessly for an ANC victory. More in COSATU Today.

SAA CEO must resign!

SATAWU’s South Africa Airways council calls for the SAA CEO and his executive team to resign in the light of their immoral, unethical, greedy and selfish conduct .This call is also informed by our understanding that he has endorsed the deliberate attack on SATAWU.

Stop the Blockade

On 30 October 2007 the UN General Assembly resolved to end the illegal and inhuman US economic, commercial and financial blockade against Cuba. The USA has only made matters worse and even threatens to use force to undermine the resistance of the Cuban people and to re-colonize Cuba. - ICAP

Zimbabwe deadlock

There has been no progress. MDC has declared a deadlock and therefore the process cannot move forward except in the presence of the facilitator. SADC and AU are the guarantors of the global political agreement. They should assist us now. – Morgan Tsvangirai, President.

Zanu PF fiddles, Zim burns

Three weeks after the signing of the political settlement by the principals of the political parties in Zimbabwe, the country is in extreme distress every kind including deaths from starvation. MDC is calling for equal distribution of key ministries. The people want new government and are on our side.

Lekota’s madness

COSAS is not surprised by the intension by Terror to form his own political party where he will have free space to behave like an animal in a zoo. Terror is a political failure and together with his drinking friends has passed his sell-by date. COSAS will campaign for students and youth to register and vote ANC.

Lekota rightwing opportunism

ANC YL is not concerned by a possible formation of a rightwing power-mongering political party by self-enriching Ntate Lekota and Mluleki George, who think they are anointed born-leaders. Youth League will be at forefront of getting people to register and vote for the ANC in the incoming elections.

Lekota, traitor, conspirator

For the past few days Terror Lekota has been running like a headless chicken from one media house to the other pleading for the mercy of the South African citizens. Terror and other conspirators belong to the dustbin of history. Their journey to political oblivion is certain. - COSATU Mpumalanga

Lekota Divorce

NUMSA is saddened by the announcement by “Comrade” Terror Lekota of intentions to “divorce” from the people’s movement, the African National Congress. We have confidence in the leadership of the ANC and its President, Jacob Zuma. We believe that sense will prevail from Terror and his friends.

Lekota’s insinuations

SADNU is saddened by the statements made by the former ANC National Chairperson insinuating the advent of an ANC “break-away” faction. SADNU calls on the working class not to be misled by such attention-seeking individuals. SADNU will be an integral part of the ANC election campaign.

Dissidents must follow protocol

NUM has noted the unfortunate and regrettable statements made by Patrick Terror Lekota and calls on its members in general and ANC members in particular to subject themselves to the discipline and democratic processes of the ANC and to ensure that they abide by collective decisions.

Lekota fails to come

An ANC delegation led by the Treasurer-General, Matthews Phosa, waited from 10h00 for a pre-arranged meeting with Comrade Terror Lekota. This meeting was confirmed telephonically and Comrade Lekota undertook to attend. Mr Lekota failed to come and sent no apology.

Mamelodi Ten reburial

The families of the Ten, MKMVA, and ANC will be having a reburial of the Mamelodi 10, who lost their lives in pursuit of the struggle to liberate the people of South Africa, as follows:

• Date: Sunday, 12th October 2008
• Time: 08h00 - 11h00
• Venue: Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square, Mamelodi

R20K for appeals – SAFA

SAFPU notes the cowardly rules and demands by the South African Football Association relating to appeal cases. Demanding that a player pay R20 000 for an appeal on top of super-exploitation and below-poverty-line salaries given to the majority of soccer players, is despicable.

Horrific DRD Gold death

Another mineworker has died at DRD Gold, once more at Blyvoor. NUM calls on DRD to explain where the safety belt was at the time this miner slipped into a skip tip. DRD Gold’s mine deaths are rising following deaths at Blyvoor two months ago and deaths of two mineworkers at ERPM.

Palestine 1948 delegation

A delegation from Palestine will discuss the One State Solution and other matters. Contact Melissa at PSC, 073 906 0017. Details:

• Date: 13 October 2008 (Monday)
• Time: 19h30 to 20h30
• Venue: 1st Flr Staff Lounge, Boyce Building, Wits School of Education, 27 St Andrew’s Road, Parktown, Jhb.

Power hungry hypocrites

NEHAWU condemns and rejects the statements made by Terror Lekota and his band of power hungry rogues that they were serving a divorce notice to the ANC and would be looking at forming a breakaway party. One of our key challenges at this stage is to prepare for the ANC electoral victory.

Western Sahara

Institute for Global Dialogue invites you to a roundtable discussion on The Western Sahara Conflict, Prospects for Resolution. Details:

• Date: 16 October 2008 (Thursday)
• Time: 10h00-12h30, followed by lunch
• Venue: Block 12, IGD House, Thornhill Office Park, Bekker Street, Vorna Valley, Midrand

Red October Launch 2008

The SACP will host the 2008 Red October Campaign under the theme "Building Street Committees, Build People's Power for a Revolutionary State". Details of the launch are:

• Date: 9 October 2008
• Time: 10h00
• Venue: AA Community Hall, Umlazi, Durban
• Speakers: ANC, COSATU and Cde Blade Nzimande

Media Briefing by Terror Lekota

YCL notes the cowardly media briefing convened today by political mercenaries and aprons of the naked emperor, Terror Lekota and Mluleki George. It might have been a tragedy when the Group 8, Pan Africanist Congress and Holomisa left the ANC. But this one is a farce.

Lekota press conference

ANC has taken note of the press conference addressed earlier today by former ANC National Chairperson Mosiuoa Lekota. The ANC has a responsibility to provide political leadership, and will therefore always act to unite It will specifically continue its engagement with Mosiuoa Lekota.

Madisha action vindicated

Willie Madisha has identified himself with the break-away splinter group announced today by Mosiuoa Lekota, in a final political betrayal of the labour movement. This vindicates the disciplinary action taken by COSATU, SACP and SADTU against Madisha. We now invoke the slogan: “Don’t mourn, organize!” - SADTU

Tautona, 5000 mourn

5000 mineworkers will tomorrow down tools at Anglogold Ashanti’s Tautona mine in Carletonville to observe a day of mourning after two mineworkers lost their lives there last week. There will be no work. A memorial service is scheduled to begin at 08h00 in the morning.

4500 strike at Pamodzi

Over 4500 mineworkers downed tools at Pamodzi Gold’s Grootvlei, Cons Modder and Subnigel [East Rand] operations after parties failed to resolve the dispute over wages. “We are not intimidated by Pamodzi’s view that it will derecognize the union”, says NUM.

Terror Lekota’s statement

COSATU notes with regret the announcement by Terror Lekota and others of their intention to leave the ANC. This is a publicity stunt whose intention is to drum up support for the party to be announced. COSATU members should swell the ranks of the ANC more than ever before.

Z Vavi to Crime Summit

COSATU agrees with decision of 52nd ANC National Conference in Polokwane to make crime one of its top priorities. We have pledged full support for the campaign to organise street committees to mobilise the people against the criminals. Full text of speech in next COSATU Today.

Esther Barsel

With great sadness COSATU mourns the passing of Comrade Esther Barsel on 6 October 2008, at the age of 83, and sends condolences to her family, friends and hundreds of comrades. Comrade Esther was a true heroine of the struggle for freedom, democracy and socialism. - SACP

SADTU supports ANC and Alliance

SADTU leadership is confident that our 235,000 members will not be misled by the lies of the disgruntled elements represented by Lekota, and affirms its continued support for the ANC and the Tripartite Alliance which is the only available vehicle to consolidate our national democratic revolution.

Election of Mashatile as Premier

YCL in Gauteng respects the election on Tuesday 7th October 2008 by the special sitting of Gauteng's Legislature, of comrade Paul Mashatile as the Provincial Premier. YCL took active part in the decision-making process, openly expressed its views, and will now defend the election of Cde Mashatile.

Mashatile Premier of Gauteng

ANC congratulates its Gauteng ANC Chairperson Paul Mashatile on being elected provincial premier. His election signals the commitment by the ANC on the smooth running of the provincial Government since the recent resignation of former premier Mbhazima Shilowa.

ANC mourns for Esther Barsel

ANC was saddened to learn of the death on 6 October 2008 of Esther Barsel, a stalwart of the ANC and Communist Party, at age 83. We pay homage to this gallant revolutionary who was unwavering in her commitment and dedication to the struggle for a democratic and just South Africa.

The beast is in the open!

SACP notes the intention of Mosiua Lekota to leave the ANC and form a new political party. His is nothing but a coalition of the ill-disciplined who cannot accept ANC democratic processes. They will meet the full might of the organized working class in the next elections and will be taught a lesson!

Six days for JIC

NUM received a certificate of non-resolution (and therefore the right to strike) of the dispute with JIC Mining Services over incapacity, at the CCMA yesterday. NUM has given JIC six days to sort itself out. Incapacity management is a right enshrined in the Mine Health and Safety Act and is non-negotiable.

Journey to Cuito Cuanavale

Ex-combatant Association invites you on our next journey from Pretoria in South Africa to the Historic Battle Fields of Cuito Cuanavale in southern Angola in early December 2008, when we will unveil a monument. Please respond to pfta@vodamail.co.za.

UNW racist students

NEHAWU strongly condemns the racist behaviour of some few University of North West students who posted racist messages on their Facebook site.

Death of Cde Esther Barsel

Cde Esther Barsel dedicated all her life to serving the people of our country and associated with the struggle for the liberation of our country when it was not fashionable to do so. - SACP

Reject Tutu’s call

SATAWU has called on its members to reject the call made by Archbishop Desmond Tutu for people not to vote in next year’s election. It is highly regrettable and unfortunate that an individual of such high standing in South Africa and the world could have made such an irresponsible statement.

Salute to fallen workers

NEHAWU has received with sadness the news of the passing away of the health workers at the Morningside Medi-Clinic in Sandton from the highly contagious fever that has hit the province. The union and would like to pass its condolences to the families and colleagues of the health workers.

Terry Bell, Liar

NEHAWU rejects the allegations and innuendos in yesterday’s Business Report. Terry Bell’s lazy tabloid reporting misrepresents normal democratic processes as scandalous and conspiratorial. His allegations are pure lies. He is simply peddling propaganda. He should start his own party and stop pretending.

Applause for Health Ministers

COSATU warmly welcomes the bold and imaginative stance being taken by the new Minister of Health, Barbara Hogan, and Deputy Minister, Dr. Molefi Sefularo, after years of denialism and foot-dragging. COSATU welcomes the Minister’s intention to press for more funds to roll out anti-retroviral drugs.

Passing of Comrade Esther

Esther Barsel was part of the generation that revived the YCL in the 1940s. Banned in 1950, the YCL was not reconstituted for over 50 years. Cde Barsel campaigned tirelessly for the re-launch achieved in 2003, and continued to serve as historical reference, guide and support to the YCL and its leaders. Hamba kahle.

Mister Terror

The Young Communist League [uFasimba] has noted with disgust the second malicious letter penned by political imbecile and former National Chairperson of the African National Congress [ANC], Mr Terror Lekota. It is our view that Lekota has become nothing but an apron of a naked emperor. - YCL

Police Shoot Workers

Police in Athlone shot at a crowd of female workers at AliBaba in Athlone Industria. Two female workers were shot in their legs with rubber bullets. Police acted as if they were voluntary security guards for the company, to defend its illegal lockout. FAWU will take legal action.

Crime Summit

POPCRU’s Crime Summit starts tomorrow with a full programme of contributions. Details are as follows:

• Date: 8-10 October 2008
• Time: 09h00
• Venue: Gallagher Estate
• Theme: Contributing to making South Africa crime free

Zimbabwe at a standstill

The MDC dismisses Zanu PF claims that only two cabinet posts are yet to be resolved upon. Contrary to these claims, there is a deadlock on allocation of all key ministries and on allocation of governors.

Spying on civilians

SACP has on numerous occasions expressed concern about abuse of state organs to fight political battles, and welcomes the strong statement of Minister of Intelligence, Cde Siyabonga Cwele, against some NIA activities including unauthorised and unlawful spying on civilians; and that he is going to act.

Worsening Financial Crisis

ITUC demands effective responses from the IMF and World Bank to worsening financial and food crises. “Nothing short of voting parity for developing countries is acceptable. The lender-borrower relationship that has defined decision-making is no longer appropriate” says ITUC General Secretary Guy Ryder.

Esther Barsel

SACP veteran, Friend of the Soviet Union and refounder of the YCL, Comrade Esther Barsel, passed away in Johannesburg today aged 83. Cde Esther will be buried in the Jewish section of West Park Cemetery tomorrow at 12h30. A Prayer Memorial will take place at 18h00 at 73 Stevens Road, Bramley North.

Mysterious Fever

SADNU learnt with shock news of the deadly and highly contagious Mysterious Fever at the Morningside Mediclinic in Sandton. Our deepest condolences go to the families, relatives, friends and colleagues of the victims.

6 Floors to Hell

Palestine Solidarity Group invites you to a viewing of documentary “6 Floors to Hell” followed by a discussion with the Director Jonathan Ben Efrat. Details:

• Date: 8 October 2008 (Wednesday)
• Time: 19h00
• Venue: The Children’s Resource Centre, 3 Milner Rd, Rondebosch (Behind Red Cross Children’s Hospital), Cape Town

SADTU rejects false claims

The Madisha issue was resolved internally by unanimous decision of the National Executive Committee, as was the action against the former Limpopo chairperson of SADTU. All then endorsed these actions of the NEC at a series of provincial conferences. Terry Bell’s reports are untrue.

Zim-Malawi Workshop

The Centre for Policy Studies invites you to a workshop on “State of Democracy and Development in Zimbabwe and Malawi”. Details:

• Date: 10 October 2008 (Friday)
• Time: 10h30 – 15h30
• Venue: Centre for Policy Studies Boardroom, 1st Floor, Rosepark South, 6 Sturdee Avenue, Rosebank, Johannesburg
• Lunch: 12h30

DENOSA on ‘mystery disease’

DENOSA notes with concern the outbreak of a ‘mystery disease’ that is suspected to be related to haemorrhagic fevers, in Johannesburg. A 34-year old nurse has died at Morningside Medi-Clinic and a cleaner has also died from this disease, coming from a patient. Medi-Clinic ICU is “closed down”.

SADTU welcomes Minister’s support

SADTU welcomes the Minister of Education’s support for Teacher Development and for the Quality Learning and Teaching Campaign. Teacher training and development has not been adequate to prepare teachers for the new curriculum. SADTU supports it and the overall campaign.

Power Grid Recolonisation [2]

HRC Press invites you to the Cape Town launch of Electric Capitalism, Recolonising Africa on the Power Grid, edited by David A McDonald. Refreshments will be served. All HSRC books are downloadable free from their web site. Details of the launch are:

• Date: 22 October 2008 (Wednesday)
• Time: 17h30 for 18h00
• Venue: Community House, 41 Salt River Road, Salt River, Cape Town
• Speakers: David A McDonald, Liz McDaid, Greg Ruiters, Wendy Annecke, David Fig, Roger Ronnie.

Power Grid Recolonisation [1]

HRC Press invites you to the Johannesburg launch of Electric Capitalism, Recolonising Africa on the Power Grid, edited by David A McDonald. Refreshments will be served. All HSRC books are downloadable free from their web site. Details of the launch are:

• Date: 16 October 2008 (Thursday)
• Time: 18h00 for 18h30
• Venue: Women’s Jail Atrium, Constitution Hill, Braamfontein, Johannesburg (Parking available in Super-Basement by prior arrangement)
• Speakers: David A McDonald, Stephen Greenberg, Richard Worthington, Jackie Dugard, Terri Hathaway, Dinga Sikwebu.

No alternative to the ANC

Jacob Zuma has written in a President’s letter in ANC Today: “When we approach [the] elections we must approach them as a united and solid force with a determination to deliver an overwhelming democratic victory for the ANC.” Full text in next COSATU Today.

Justice for Eudy Simelane

Eudy Simelane, woman, lesbian and national Banyana Banyana soccer player, was gang raped and killed in her home, KwaThema, on 28 April 2008. On 7 October 2008 the Springs Magistrate Court resumes the case. Join Campaign 07-07-07 in a picket there, details as follows:

• Date: 7 October 2008
• Time: Please phone 011 487 3811
• Venue: Opposite Home Affairs, close to Springs railway station

ANC taps Paul Mashatile

The ANC's national leadership has decided to recommend to the ANC in Gauteng that Paul Mashatile be elected premier of the province. Mashatile is the ANC Gauteng provincial chairperson.

New Political Party

The ANC takes notes of the reports in the media on the imminent formation of a new party. These reports have no face to them. Our constitution guarantees the freedom of association. The ANC will not be distracted.

Mbhazima Shilowa’s utterances

We expect Comrade Mbhazima to observe discipline, behave honestly and carry out loyally the decisions of the majority and of higher bodies. This is what he used to preach and enforce when he was the chairperson of our province. Now he questions the NEC. – ANC Gauteng

Zimbabwe and Swaziland

COSATU, with unions and progressive organisations of civil society from South Africa, Zimbabwe and Swaziland, have met to review the on-going solidarity campaign with the people of Zimbabwe and Swaziland. Details of their deliberations will be in the next COSATU Today.

Southern African Social Forum

COSATU invites you to a preparatory public forum on the SASF scheduled for 16-18 October 2008 in Swaziland. All are welcome to attend the preparatory forum. Details are as follows:

• Date: 7 October 2008
• Time: 11h30
• Venue: COSATU House

Response to Terror

The ANC Youth League noted the open letter by former ANC National Chairperson, Mr. Terror Lekota. Childish, mediocre, and ill-disciplined individuals will not divert the ANC's dedication towards the 2009 General Elections and its strategic objectives as contained in the Freedom Charter.

Struggle for re-recognition

SACCAWU and COSATU gave a background on protected strike of 5000 workers at Woolworths and reasons for call of a consumer boycott. Company unilaterally de-recognised the union in 1999 and has obstructed all channels of negotiation since that time. Strike and boycott continue.

March on Phambilinombane

SACP Brian Bunting District (Cape Town) will lead a march against poor supply of electricity by Phambilinombane Energy Services. Details:

• Date: 4 October 2008 (Saturday)
• Time: 13h00
• Route: From the Circle of Spine Road Khayelitsha to Site B Police Station

Mineworkers march on Chamber

Tens of thousands of mineworkers will march to the Chamber of Mines offices in Johannesburg to lament the zero levels of transformation and high levels of racism in the mining and construction sectors. The workers will assemble at 10h00 in Beyers Naude Square (Library Gardens). - NUM

FAWU veterans’ birthdays

The Food and Allied Workers' Union will be celebrating the birthdays of comrades Elizabeth Mafikeng and Liz Abrahams on Friday, 3 October at 14h00 at the Mbekweni Community Hall in Paarl, Cape Town.

SASF 2008, Manzini, Swaziland

The Southern Africa Social Forum 2008 will take place at Mavuso International Trade Fair, Manzini, Swaziland on the 16-18th October, 2008. The theme and focus of deliberations for the SASF 2008 will be “People’s Solidarity Against Poverty and Oppression”.

Woolworths solidarity march

COSATU calls upon workers and public to join a SACCAWU-organised march to the offices of BUSA in support of the strike for union recognition by Woolworths workers. Details:

• Date: 3 October 2008 (Friday)
• Time: 11h00
• Assembly: Innisfree Park, Katherine Street, Sandton
• March: Along Katherine, Grayston, Rivonia and Fredman Streets, to arrive at the BUSA Offices at 3 Gwen Lane, Sandton, at 13h00.

Green Point Video

There will be a Green Point (Cape Town 2010 Football Stadium) lunchtime Construction Workers’ Mass Meeting and Video Screening as follows:

• Date: 7 October 2008 (Tuesday)
• Time: 13h00-14h00
• Venue: Green Point Stadium Visitors’ Centre

Protest against US warship

The AntiWar Coalition and Earthlife Africa call for mass demonstration for Saturday 4th October at 10h00 at Cape Town Harbour against the presence of the Weapon of Mass Destruction USS Theodore Roosevelt that is expected to arrive in Table Bay this weekend.

NPA’s OSD failure

NEHAWU is very disturbed by the failure of the National Prosecuting Authority to meet the implementation deadline of the Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) pay increase and regard this action as a sign that the organisation has total disregard for the laws of the country.

NUM in dispute with Pamodzi

NUM has this morning declared a wage dispute with Pamodzi Gold‘s East Rand Operations, one step before strike action. NUM tabled a demand of 12%. Employees are on two rates of pay and the employer is recalcitrant about implementing its equalization promises given many months ago.

Who is Uncle Dan Tloome?

SACP National Chairperson Gwede Mantashe delivered the Dan Tloome Memorial Lecture in Ikageng (Potchefstroom). Dan Tloome was a founder member of the Council of Non-European Trade Unions in 1941 and its first Vice-President, and much more. See next COSATU Today.

NEHAWU condemns racism

NEHAWU reacts with disgust and anger to the reports of workers who were spray painted by their white colleague at Judges Refurbishments in Selby, Johannesburg.

SASOL profit-maximising mafia

SASOL was publicly owned over many decades. SASOL’s profit-maximising bosses now choke off industrial development, slow job creation, and hit us in the pocket. SASOL must be re-nationalised. We cannot allow it to be in the hands of, to use the EU’s term, a profit-maximising “mafia”. - SACP

Murderers of Chris Hani

ANC Youth League notes the Correctional Services Parole Board’s intention to consider parole of Clive Derby-Lewis, one of the murderers Chris Hani on the 10th of September 1993. The ANC YL rejects and will oppose any attempt to grant parole to Clive Derby-Lewis.

COSATU backs Mashatile

COSATU-affiliated unions’ chairpersons and secretaries in Gauteng Province met and decided to support the deployment of Comrade Paul Mashatile, the ANC Gauteng provincial Chairperson, to the post of Gauteng Provincial Premier.

Action against municipalities

COSATU in the North West supports the demonstrations, marches and picketing against municipalities in the North West that continue to undermine the working class and its trade union, SAMWU. On 24 October 2008 all municipalities in the province will be embarking on a secondary strike.

Pension fund war at Eskom

NUM objects to Eskom‘s proposal to convert its retirement fund from a Defined Benefit (Pension fund) to a Defined Contribution (Provident Fund). Eskom has failed its workers, it has failed the nation, and now it wants to fail pensioners with underhand activities, says NUM.