The Cosatu meeting explored the potential challenges and pitfalls that might arise from the GNU power-sharing arrangement, especially in terms of the struggles of the working class.
by DR FATIMA HENDRICKS
The Tripartite Alliance, comprising the African National Congress (ANC), the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu), and the South African Communist Party (SACP) is an alliance between a political party, a major trade union, and a communist party that is meant to address South Africa’s pressing socio-economic challenges. However, the success of this alliance remains questionable, given the country’s persistent issues with inequality, unemployment, and corruption.
The ANC, South Africa’s ruling party, has long maintained a complex and sometimes controversial alliance with the South African Communist Party (SACP). Similarly, COSATU, representing over a million workers, has a shared history rooted in the anti-apartheid struggle. These relationships continue to shape the country’s political landscape. However, there are emerging tensions as the ANC forges ahead with the Government of National Unity (GNU).
COSATU convened a media briefing on Monday, June 24, 2024 to disseminate the results of its ordinary Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting. This three-day meeting held from June 18 to 20 aimed to address a spectrum of pressing issues affecting workers and the broader working class.
COSATU expressed support for the GNU’s Declaration of Intent, whilst acknowledging two key aspects of the declaration, namely, the commitment to safeguard workers’ rights and the pledge to engage in dialogue with labour, business and civil society regarding the GNU’s policy platform. The CEC meeting delved into a critical analysis of the recent general elections, exploring the potential challenges and pitfalls that might arise from this power-sharing arrangement, especially in terms of the struggles of the working class.
Vigorous discussions were held regarding the content of the GNU and its ability to effectively address the nation’s pressing issues and policy positions given the potentially conflicting agendas of its constituent parties. Critics voiced concerns that the diverse ideological backgrounds and competing interests within the GNU could lead to political gridlock around progressive workers’ rights. They argued that the constituent parties, as part of the GNU, may push for compromises resulting in watered-down policies that fail to tackle the root causes of workers’ challenges.
In the COSATU media briefing it was reiterated that the protection of workers’ gains must be vigorously safeguarded in an ever-evolving economic landscape. While progress has been made in labour rights and working conditions, these hard-won achievements are increasingly under threat, with potential reversal in gains made over the past 30 years in a developmental state. The demands of certain parties now in the GNU may pander to corporate interests, lean labour ratios, and technological advancements which may prioritise profit over the workers’ welfare, potentially eroding the struggle for fair compensation and workplace safety.
COSATU voiced its support for the implementation of the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme – a comprehensive healthcare reform designed to provide universal access to quality healthcare services for all South Africans, regardless of their socioeconomic status.
In addition to healthcare reform, COSATU advocates for the development of a comprehensive social security system, which would provide a safety net for vulnerable members of society and help reduce poverty and inequality.
The union also emphasises the importance of intensifying efforts to combat crime and corruption, recognising these issues as significant obstacles to social and economic progress in the country.
COSATU supports increased investment in a developmental state model, which involves well-resourced public services to drive economic growth and address societal needs. This approach aligns with their commitment to promoting employment equity and Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policies designed to redress historical imbalances and promote economic inclusion for previously disadvantaged groups.
On the international front, COSATU has expressed its backing for the African agenda, which focuses on continental integration, economic development and peace and security across Africa. Furthermore, the organisation has pledged solidarity with struggling nations worldwide, particularly highlighting its support for the Palestinian people in their ongoing struggle for liberation. This stance reflects COSATU’s commitment to global social justice and human rights issues beyond South Africa’s borders.
COSATU took a decision at the CEC meeting to invoke Section 77 of the Labour Relations Act, that allows for protected protest action to address socio-economic issues. This resolution marks the beginning of a comprehensive nationwide initiative culminating in a National Day of Action.
The primary objective of this campaign is to safeguard the constitutional and labour rights that workers have fought hard to secure over the years, as well as to protect the integrity of collective bargaining processes in both public and private sectors.
In preparation for this pivotal National Day of Action, COSATU has issued a directive to its affiliates who are expected to spearhead campaigns focused on job preservation across all industries. This approach is in direct response to issues around the implementation of Section 189 of the Labour Relations Act, which deals with retrenchments and operational requirements that may lead to job losses. COSATU aims to mobilise on the issue of potential threats to job security and to advocate for alternative solutions that prioritise worker retention and fair labour practices.
- Dr Fatima Hendricks is an independent researcher.
