The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) extends its revolutionary greetings and best wishes to the South African Municipal Workers Union (SAMWU) as it convenes its 13th National Congress in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, from 17 to 19 March 2026, under the theme “Towards Four Decades and Beyond in Defence of Workers’ Interests.”

As a proud affiliate of the Congress of South African Trade Unions, SAMWU occupies a critical position in advancing the struggles of municipal workers and, by extension, the broader working class. This Congress takes place at a crucial moment in our country, where workers continue to confront deepening socio-economic challenges, including austerity measures, rising inequality, and persistent attacks on collective bargaining and public sector integrity.

POPCRU takes this opportunity to commend the leadership elected at the 12th National Congress for steering the union through one of the most difficult periods in recent history. The outbreak of COVID-19 and the subsequent lockdowns placed immense strain on municipal workers, yet SAMWU remained steadfast in defending jobs, wages, and the dignity of its members under extremely challenging conditions.

Since its founding in 1987, SAMWU has consistently been at the forefront of struggles to defend workers’ rights, oppose corruption in municipalities, and promote accountable and developmental local government. The union’s efforts in resisting attempts to undermine workers’ political rights, while strengthening unity within COSATU, are a testament to its resilience and principled leadership.

As the country moves closer to the upcoming local government elections, this Congress must further consolidate working-class unity and sharpen the strategic posture of the labour movement. It is through unity in action that workers can effectively confront exploitation, defend public services, and advance a transformative agenda that places the needs of the poor and working class at the centre of governance.

POPCRU reaffirms its commitment to working alongside SAMWU and other progressive formations in building a strong, united, and militant trade union movement. We remain resolute in advancing internationalism, deepening class consciousness, and contributing to the broader project of building a united left front capable of driving forward the aspirations of our people.

We are confident that this 13th National Congress will produce decisive resolutions that will strengthen the union organisationally, politically, and ideologically as it marches towards its 40th anniversary and beyond.

POPCRU wishes SAMWU a successful and productive National Congress, with robust deliberations that will further advance the interests of municipal workers and the entire working class.

Issued by POPCRU

For more information, contact Richard Mamabolo on 066 135 4349