COSATU CEC members

Alliance leaders present here today, 

The ambassador of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, 

International trade union partners, 

International Solidarity organisations

Dear Comrades,

Today COSATU Convened this very important International Roundtable to discuss the fast evolving and earth-shaking global developments.

From Venezuela to Gaza, to Greenland, to Eastern Europe and on our own continent, Africa itself. 

It is for this reason that we call for dedicated focus and action on the state of the progressive forces on our own continent in particular and the global south in general. 

None of us can deny that not only is the world changing, but it has changed. The fundamental question is  in whose interest is the new and emerging world?

We are firmly opposed to imperialism and wars of conquest of other people’s lands and territories. 

 *We have made Public statements, organised marches and pickets, mobilized all progressive forces in support of the Venezuelan people* and their sovereign right to self determination.

 *We have not stopped expressing our unequivocal support for the rights of the Palestinian people* against genocide, apartheid and occupation.

 *We are reaffirming our rejection of the blockade against Cuba* and the recent intensification of acts of aggression, unilateral sanctions and denial of basic needs of the Cuban people by the US.

 *We remain steadfast in our call for democracy in Swaziland/Eswatini* , which is key to the democratic development of the whole SADC region. Our region can’t be held back by a self interested monarchy while the people suffer. 

 *The 8th Central Committee (CC) of COSATU held in Ekurhuleni last year September was clear in its articulation of the perspectives for the intensification of working class solidarity, internationalism and people’s power* in the era of increased oppression and exploitation of the poor globally. 

COSATU has always been clear that the NDR is about advances in the domestic and international spheres. It is a recognition of the inter-connectedness of the various sites of struggle to advance domestic and global justice, equality, democracy, environmental justice and humane development. 

We appreciate all our affiliates coordinated by the federation for the heightened work in advancing these objectives and 8th CC outcomes.

We wish to express clearly our firm rejection of tge deployment to our country, of the racist ambassador of the US, Leo Brent Bozell 111, a well known racist who supported te apartheid regime to the last day.

It can’t be acceptable that our ambassador can be expelled by the US for executing the our national mandate, but a well known supporter of apartheid become accepted in our own country.

The CEC of COSATU next week shall deliberate further on this unacceptable state of affairs and attack on our democratic sovereignty.

We further on the AU to do more in dealing with the pressing condition facing our people on the continent for Peace, democracy, human rights and inclusive development for all.

This forum is initiated by COSATU as a anchor of swell coordinated International Solidarity Forum, which  aim to bring together all progressive forces to unite, defend and advance progressive ideals, values and principles.

Towards that end, we also call for increased coordination of solidarity and unity in action.