National shutdown marred by divisions

What was believed to be a collaborative effort from the two trade union federations on Wednesday proved to be anything but. 

Speaking to Jacaranda FM News in the morning, Saftu spokesperson Trevor Shaku said attempts to meet with Cosatu’s national leadership on a course of action ahead of the shutdown proved unsuccessful.

“But luckily the leadership at the provincial level were able to meet and decide on joint programmes in various provinces. We will just see because this is also a test of unity in action as things unfold as the day progresses.”

But Cosatu first deputy president Mike Shingage ascribed the lack of collaboration to workers being in the dark on the course of action. 

He claimed that Saftu gathered at Burgers Park, where Cosatu also began their march, because they did not have their own certificate.

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“The issue was that the workers were not briefed about what is happening. That is why we had to come in as the leadership and manage that part. That is why the Saftu leaders went there to address their members because where they’re gathering is not where we received the certificate for gathering. We as Cosatu are the only ones who got that certificate. But they did not have that.”

Shingange further claimed the two unions would march together, but that was not the case. 

Both went their own way to the Union Buildings.

Upon arrival each had their different stages.

Soon after both unions were settled in, Saftu general-secretary Zwelinzima Vavi confronted Cosatu about the divisions.

Vavi told Cosatu that  it would be in both their interests to work together. 

Both unions submitted their memorandums to Minister in the Presidency Mondli Gungubele, who committed to responding in due course.