Fin24 reports that the National Trade Union Congress of SA (NTUC) claims that a new labour federation under the leadership of Zwelinzima Vavi would be simply a “copy and paste” of its position.  

In a statement, it criticised Vavi, former general secretary of labour federation Cosatu, and other leaders from the new labour federation for “copying” its stance of being politically independent.  This followed media reports last week that Vavi and others would be starting a new, non-politically-aligned labour federation.  However, Vavi said on Monday that if the NTUC felt that it shared the same ideals, it should join the federation.  “All those that identify with our principles should join forces with us, instead of throwing stones at us.”  The NTUC, founded in 2014, represents over 2,500 workers, across different sectors.  Vavi indicated that, so far, the new federation represents over 2 million workers under 57 different unions.

• Read this report by Lameez Omarjee in full at Fin24
• Read NTUC’s press statement at SA Labour News

Get other news reports at the SA Labour News home page