The Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) has vowed to intensify its opposition to deep cuts in government spending on social services and the freezing of salaries of civil servants.
That’s some of the decisions taken during its bi-annual policy conference, known as the Central Committee, which was held virtually for the first time, over the past four days.
This year’s Central Committee marked the start of a new chapter in the history of the Cosatu in many ways.
Cosatu president, Zingiswa Losi explains: “We entered this historic Central Committee with many daunting challenges facing workers. Workers are facing unprecedented times.”
As expected, Cosatu has resolved to support the African National Congress (ANC) in the upcoming local government election.
Cosatu general secretary, Bheki Ntshalintshali says the party must be victorious.
“We shall strengthen the revolutionary forces, particularly as led by the Alliance to occupy the space and to rally behind the ANC for a victorious local government election.”
However, it has vowed to continue opposing budget cuts by the state.
“We’ll step up our efforts and end austerity measures including fighting against public sector wage bill cuts,” adds Ntshalintshali.
The labour federation has also resolved to intensify its push for the introduction of a Basic Income Grant and National Health Insurance in the country.
South African Federation of Trade Unions, Federation of Unions of South Africa, and National Council of Trade Unions also took part in the conference for the first time. A sign of growing co-operation by union leaders in fighting for the common good of their members.
Cosatu holds its crucial four-day mid-term policy conference
