New labour group might break log-jam in SA politics

03 May 2016 - 09:23 By The Times Editorial

It's about time that Cosatu, South Africa's biggest labour federation, finally had some competition. Since its formation, back in December 1985, Cosatu has played a key role in improving the lives of workers.But its successes got the better of its leaders. They not only rubbed shoulders with political leaders, they were roped into the state machinery to serve in various positions.Money began to take centre stage and the once powerful labour federation became conflicted.This weekend, ousted Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi joined other "rebels" to establish a new labour federation, claiming that Cosatu had abandoned its founding principle of fighting for the workers.There are those who will argue that Vavi and his crew will behave in just the same way as Cosatu's leaders.But what is certain is that workers are increasingly not unionised. Have they lost faith in Cosatu and the unions, or is it that they just don't care any more?Thousands of young South Africans have stopped searching for employment.It is the unemployed masses that pose the biggest danger to this government, not splinter unions or political parties.South Africa today needs more players, from all sectors of society, to be active in politics to defuse the monopoly on power and the leadership cult that seem to have taken over our institutions.Now that Vavi and his supporters have decided on a new path, they should avoid the mistakes of those who ran the race before them. It will be interesting to see how Cosatu and its alliance partners react to the new competition.We are of the view that those who can serve workers without being conflicted by factional battles around Luthuli House will stand a better chance of growing their influence in society.No more fence-sitting. Cosatu leaders should decide on their priority: the workers or state power...

There’s never been a more important time to support independent media.

From World War 1 to present-day cosmopolitan South Africa and beyond, the Sunday Times has been a pillar in covering the stories that matter to you.

For just R80 you can become a premium member (digital access) and support a publication that has played an important political and social role in South Africa for over a century of Sundays. You can cancel anytime.

Already subscribed? Sign in below.



Questions or problems? Email helpdesk@timeslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00.