The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) joins millions of South Africans and the international community in commemorating the 35th anniversary of struggle icon, Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela’s release from prison on the 11 February 1990. After spending a lengthy 27 years behind bars, his freedom would culminate into negotiations that would pave a way for the liberation of the country, giving birth to a democratic South Africa.
Nelson Mandela dedicated his entire life to the unshackling of the oppressed from the Apartheid regime, even in prison his commitment to the movement was unwavering. His release from prison marked a historical climax in South Africa. To date, he remains a symbol of the country’s emancipation which came from the blood, sweat and tears of the countless activists in the movement. In his first public speech on the Grand Parade at the Cape Town City Hall and later in his many addresses, Madiba expressed gratitude to the working class for its role towards a new political era. The African National Congress had been unbanned days before his release after decades of a collaborative mobilisation to end unjust laws of Apartheid.
As the country marks this historic day, it is important to reflect on the gains that emanated from this transition. The 1994 democratic elections ushered in the Constitution of 1996, a Bill of Rights recognising all citizens of South Africa, regardless of race or gender. It is the Constitution that ended powers of racism and discrimination. From the constitution, followed labour laws such as the Labour Relations Act, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act and a myriad of other laws that sought to emancipate workers.
These laws have been amended over the years, though the engagements of labour, organised business, civil society groups and government. Thirty-one years into democracy, these engagements have produced a meaningful and life changing impact to the lives of South Africans and the working class. Whilst enormous change is evident, the commitment to the liberation of workers from self- serving employers who push against progressive laws continues.
COSATU applauds government, labour, business and community organisations through platforms such as the National Economic Development and Labour Council(Nedlac) and National Minimum Wage (NMW) Commission in addressing the country’s socio economic challenges. It is through these platforms that poverty is eradicated for millions of people battling to make ends meet, particularly farm, domestic, construction, retail, transport, hospitality, security, and cleaning workers.
The Federation hopes that the anniversary of Madiba’s release is an opportunity for all South Africans, from all walks of life to review not only his long walk to freedom, but also to the country’s long walk to the formation of the laws we now enjoy.
Issued by COSATU
Zanele Sabela (National Spokesperson)
Mobile: 079 287 5788
Email: zaneles@cosatu.org.za