The Congress of South African Trade Unions in the Eastern Cape has received the news of the passing of the Federation’s Provincial Chairperson, Comrade Tabile Kunene, with great shock and a deep sense of sadness. He passed away yesterday morning, the 15th of April 2023.
Comrade Tabile was an all-round cadre in the Alliance. His involvement in the struggle began in his youth and student days. He developed to be a great leader and occupied the following positions among others:
· SADTU Elliotdale Branch Secretary
· SADTU Polly Gabada Regional Secretary (formerly Eastern Region)
· SADTU Polly Gabada Regional Chairperson (formerly Eastern Region)
· ANC King Sabata Dalindyebo Sub-regional Chairperson (O.R. Tambo Region)
· SADTU Eastern Cape Provincial Deputy Chairperson
· SADTU Eastern Cape Provincial Chairperson
· COSATU Eastern Cape Provincial Chairperson
He was a leader of outstanding qualities, which made him cut above the rest. His commitment and dedication to his work and the struggle was remarkable and his ability to strike a balance between his school responsibilities and union duties was very impressive. As a loyal SACP member, he was a humble revolutionary leader that was rooted to the masses.
Comrade Kunene also served as a Governing Board member in the Eastern Cape Socio-Economic Consultative Council (ECSECC) and other institutions where he distinguished himself with his governance prowess.
In him, we have lost a humble soul with a pleasant personality, a towering figure, and a great leader of the toiling masses.
We express our sincere sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Kunene family, relatives, colleagues, COSATU and the entire liberation movement for this sad loss.
May his dear soul rest in eternal peace. Hamba kahle Mchenge!
Issued by COSATU Eastern Cape
Contact:
Mkhawuleli Maleki
COSATU Provincial Secretary
Mobile: 082 339 5482
Email: mkhawuleli@cosatu.org.za