Anti-apartheid activist, Ronnie Kasrils, has recently called for unity within the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU). Kasrils, who is a former member of the African National Congress (ANC) and a prominent figure in the anti-apartheid struggle, believes that unity within COSATU is crucial for the advancement of workers’ rights and the fight against inequality in South Africa.
In a recent interview, Kasrils emphasized the importance of COSATU as a powerful voice for workers in South Africa. He acknowledged the challenges that the trade union federation has faced in recent years, including internal divisions and leadership disputes. However, he also highlighted the significant role that COSATU has played in the country’s history, particularly in the fight against apartheid.
Kasrils urged COSATU leaders and members to put aside their differences and work towards a common goal of improving the lives of workers in South Africa. He stressed that unity is essential for the trade union movement to remain strong and effective in advocating for workers’ rights.
The call for unity within COSATU comes at a critical time for South Africa, as the country continues to grapple with high levels of unemployment, poverty, and inequality. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these issues, with many workers losing their jobs and struggling to make ends meet.
Kasrils believes that COSATU has a crucial role to play in addressing these challenges and ensuring that workers are not left behind. He emphasized the need for the trade union federation to be united and focused in its efforts to fight for better wages, improved working conditions, and social justice for all workers.
The veteran activist also called on COSATU to strengthen its partnerships with other civil society organizations and social movements. He believes that by working together, these groups can have a greater impact in advocating for the rights of workers and marginalized communities.
Kasrils’ call for unity within COSATU has been met with a positive response from many within the trade union federation. COSATU’s current president, Zingiswa Losi, has welcomed Kasrils’ words and emphasized the need for the federation to remain united in the face of challenges.
Losi also acknowledged the role that COSATU has played in the struggle against apartheid and reaffirmed the federation’s commitment to fighting for workers’ rights and social justice. She emphasized that COSATU will continue to work towards building a better South Africa for all, and that unity within the federation is crucial for achieving this goal.
In conclusion, Ronnie Kasrils’ call for unity within COSATU is a timely reminder of the important role that the trade union federation plays in South Africa. As the country continues to face challenges related to unemployment, poverty, and inequality, it is crucial for COSATU to remain united and focused on its mission to improve the lives of workers. With strong leadership and a united front, COSATU can continue to be a powerful force for positive change in South Africa.
