The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) joins the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) in calling for the defence of democracy, constitutionalism and the rule of law in Zimbabwe and throughout the SADC region.

The ZCTU’s call comes after the resolution taken at the recent Conference of ZANU PF, the ruling party of Zimbabwe, to call for the extension of the term of the incumbent President, Emmerson Mnangagwa. ZCTU made it clear that this is an affront to democracy, good governance and respect for the sanctity of public office.

COSATU expresses unwavering solidarity with the workers and people of Zimbabwe in their efforts to defend democracy, advance constitutionalism and ensure good governance. To that extent, COSATU as part of the Southern African Trade Union Coordinating Council (SATUCC) family and the broader international trade union movement remains a key part of the struggle for democracy, social justice, accountability and end to corruption and abuse of public office.

COSATU emphasises the point that the struggles of the workers of Zimbabwe are firmly intertwined with our collective struggles as the workers of the region, and given the role we play in building a new and democratic SADC, we cannot be silent when the advances we have made as a region are being undermined, and workers gains are eroded. Indeed, an injury to one is an injury to all.

It is for that reason that as the progressive trade union movement of the region, we remain actively seized with the democratic development of our region and to advance social changes to the conditions of our people.

The biggest threat to our region is those individuals who go to lengths to tear apart constitutions and democratic norms to stay in power for self-interest, thus sacrificing national progress, justice and good governance.

Issued by COSATU

Bongani Masuku (COSATU International Secretary)

Mobile: 079 499 6419

Email: bongani@cosatu.org.za