The South African Federation of Trade Unions (Saftu) has called on workers to close ranks and defend the Report of the Judicial Inquiry into Allegations State Capture. The report has fingered high-profile politicians and business people for looting millions of rand from state-owned companies.
Executives of parastatals are said to have facilitated the theft of vast amounts of public funds to private sector businesses, mainly through dodgy contracts. Huge amounts of money were also siphoned off through sponsorships.
Saftu General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi says the report is shocking.
“The damage has been massive. The generations to come will still be counting the costs of this damage that has been caused, not just economically but the moral fibre of our politics. Our politics have been robbed of the honesty of Nelson Mandela, OR Tambo, Chief Luthuli, Chris Hani, Joe Slovo and many other heroes of the liberation struggle. We are in trouble. “
Now, Saftu says workers must rise and defend the report because they are the first victims of the alleged corruption.
Vavi says those who are found guilty must face the harshest punishment.
Saftu condemns state capture:
For its part, the Congress of South African Trade Unions (Cosatu) says the stolen money must be recovered.
“We hope that law enforcement agencies will move with speed. Our view was that money stolen must be recovered, conviction, just to go to jail is not enough without getting the money. People can hide money, go to jail, get parole and come back and live a stylish life. We think state agencies must follow the money wherever it is and recover it,” says Cosatu General Secretary, Bheki Ntshalintshali.
More bombshell findings are likely to come when the Zondo Commission releases the second and third parts of its findings and recommendations by the end of next month.
Labour organisations call on workers to defend the State Capture report:
