Divisive, war songs banned at Cosatu congress
Divisive, tribal or war songs were banned at the Congress of South African Trade Unions’ (Cosatu) 12th national congress which kicked off in Midrand on Monday.
According to congress rules, divisive, tribal or war songs that were unrelated to the class battle would not be allowed.
“Singing in praise of any serving leader of the federation is not divisive. However, singing against any leader of the federation is divisive and will not be allowed,” the rules read.
Further more no showing of signs that seeks to prematurely open the debate on leadership of the federation would be allowed.
“No displaying of any posters, wearing of T-shirts, or circulation of material in support of any candidate in the Cosatu election will be allowed.”
The congress, in session from Monday to Thursday, was expected to elect new leaders for the federation.
In the draft organisation report to the congress, the federation reported that is membership had dropped to 1,9 million.
The South African Democratic Teachers’ Union (Sadtu) wished the congress well.
“The build-up to the congress has been met by negativity from the prophets of doom predicting its demise. However, the special congress held in July proved them wrong as the federation emerged stronger and more resolute in its mandate to fight for workers,” the union said in a statement.
“We owe our being to the wonderful work Cosatu did which led our formation. Sadtu goes to the congress not to attend an event but to receive instruction from the command centre to stand together with all workers and to contribute towards unity and the National Democratic Revolution.” - ANA