Cape Town – At a meeting in Cape Town on Thursday evening Cosatu’s dismissed general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi plans to discuss how the federation can be claimed back into the hands of workers, he said in a News24Live studio interview with Terry Bell on Thursday.
“The question is whether we believe we can reclaim the federation at a special congress under the current circumstances,” said Vavi.
“Or has the time arrived to say we have reached the end of the road with the federation.”
He pointed out that unemployment in SA has now reached what he calls “catastrophic levels”. In his view the SA labour market still discriminate against blacks because of their race and he claims in some townships the unemployment rate is as high as 60% to 80%. Age discrimination and the use of casual employment are other important aspects he would like to see addressed.
“We are the most unequal society in the world. Instead of facing the economic reality, we keep ourselves busy with boardroom antics,” said Vavi.
That is why he is wants a democratic forum of unions and is “calling on all to share in a united militant fight” by attending the meeting in Cape Town.
“You do not need a name for that. If workers say let’s get back Cosatu, then we will, but if they say no, we have bigger issues to deal with, we will accept that,” said Vavi.
He said if such a special congress would take place where those “purged” would be allowed back, he would attend.
“Unfortunately it will never happen unless one goes to court and that is very expensive,” said Vavi.
He estimated that Cosatu spent between R5m and R6m on court battles last year.
“The future of decent work, a restructured economy, industrialisation, freedom from labour brokering and fighting corruption we were promised [at Polokwane] did not materialise. We remain in crisis. We have not changed,” said Vavi.
He is especially disappointed by the current state of education and health care in SA. The lack of rural development is another area that must be addressed.
“The struggle continues. Therefore, we say do not moan, mobilise,” concluded Vavi.
Fin24
