The Congress of South African Trade Unions in Gauteng convened its first Provincial Executive Committee(PEC) meeting on the 4th of April 2023, to discuss amongst others, the political climate, international balance of forces, socio-economic challenges and organisational issues in the province. The PEC met at a time when the country lacks leadership at both political and government levels. This lack of leadership has resulted in poor service delivery, a deteriorating economy, political turmoil, the crisis of gender- based violence, high levels of crime and the triple crisis of unemployment, poverty and inequalities.
It is evidently clear that the African National Congress has lost its historical character as the leader of society and its legitimacy amongst the working class is fast declining as confirmed by the election results. As a result, the PEC guided by the 14th Provincial Congress to build the ANC, will engage with the party on challenges in the alliance, governance, and socio-economic issues.
The PEC noted developments in the international space, particularly the warrant of arrest issued against President Vladimir Putin by the International Criminal Court. South Africa should sharply discuss why the country should continue its membership of the ICC, taking into consideration its biasness on its approach to justice. The situation in Palestine remains volatile. The meeting concluded that probably time has arrived for South Africa to cut diplomatic ties with Israel. It further concluded that COSATU in Gauteng should resuscitate its solidarity campaign with the people of Palestine, Cuba and Swaziland.
The turn of events in the public service are highly concerning, particularly the handling of the recent strike by NEHAWU and conclusion of wage negotiations. The current situation in the public service is being induced by the neo-liberal policy approach by government. The concentration of neo-liberalism is to slash budget on social spending, including rationalizing the wage bill. The current impasse amongst affiliates of COSATU has the potential to divide and destroy the Federation, and as such, the Central Executive Committee should robustly discuss ways in which this situation could be managed to avoid further disunity among workers.
The protracted impasse between MAKRO and SACCAWU was also discussed. COSATU in Gauteng concluded that MAKRO should be boycotted. The Federation will lead the struggle of MAKRO workers and other workers confronted by the same situation across all sectors of the economy.
The PEC has further noted the implementation of the 18% electricity tariff increase and concluded that the increase will mostly affect the working class. The meeting will initiate a campaign against this increase. This campaign will run until the Minister of Minerals and Resources, Gwede Mantashe takes this matter to court, gunning for the price increase review.
Issued by COSATU Gauteng
Provincial Secretary – Louisa Modikwe: 066 182 2402
Provincial Chairperson – Amos Monyela: 079 493 5002