Failed alliance is a 'real threat': Cosatu

A failure of the alliance between the ANC, Cosatu, the SA Communist Party and the SA National Civics Organisation is a real threat, Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi said.

"There is an element of political demoralisation and disillusionment among our members," Vavi said as the Congress of SA Trade Unions (Cosatu) central committee adopted a resolution on the political situation in South Africa.

"Some of them are refusing to engage with political issues," he said.

There were three possible scenarios on the future of the alliance: the creation of a "working alliance"; a failed alliance; or political withdrawal.

Vavi said a working alliance was the only "viable political option". It would be difficult to make it work "but this is what we want.

"However, we can't be religious about maintaining the status quo in the alliance, and continue to do the same things if these strategies aren't working. Creative new strategies are needed," he said.

"We need to look at the risks and dangers in the current situation and how to mitigate them."

He said everything possible needed to be done to ensure the successful achievement of a working alliance and to prevent a failed alliance or political withdrawal.

While Cosatu views the alliance is the political centre, the ANC sees the party as the political centre.

Cosatu resolved to create an alliance "think tank" and a "capacity to direct government".

"We need to relook at the alliance's relationship with government in terms of engagement on the development agenda," Vavi said.

Cosatu also resolved to politicise the youth by having its affiliates set up youth desks and take them seriously.

The central committee would discuss the socio-economic situation and take decisions on unemployment, poverty and inequality on Thursday afternoon.