Johnathan Paoli
The African National Congress (ANC) has commemorated what it refers to as a triumph for workers’ rights in South Africa over the past 30 years under its rule.
In a statement released on Tuesday, national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri said that on the internationally-recognized day, the party salutes the formidable spirit and enduring resilience of the workers of the country.
“In the thirty years since the dawn of our democracy, the ANC, standing on the shoulders of giants like Oliver Tambo and Nelson Mandela, has remained steadfast in its commitment to the upliftment of the working class,” Bhengu-Motsiri said.
She highlighted the establishment of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) as a crucial ally, in its efforts to advance workers’ interests, and ensure that their voices are instrumental in shaping policy.
Bhengu-Motsiri outlined progressive labour laws enacted in the country to strengthen workers’ rights and improve working conditions namely: the Labour Relations Act, including the creation of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA); the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, which set minimum standards for employment conditions; the Employment Equity Act, which aims at promoting economic development and social justice; and the National Minimum Wage Act, which has sought to address the inequalities for workers within the country.
“This policy underscores our belief that economic justice is essential for the stability and prosperity of our nation,” the spokesperson said.
Furthermore, she said that the rise of unions in a free South Africa is a testament to the indomitable will of the country’s people, and praised their growth in numbers, strength and influence.
She called for a reflection of the country’s journey over the past thirty years and said that despite the challenges, the party reiterated its pledge to continue the struggle for economic freedom, a living wage, and to continue to fight for the rights of all South African workers, including the working poor, indigent and unemployed.
The trade union congress is currently hosting the National Workers’ Day Rally at the Athlone Stadium in Cape Town, under the theme: “Building a strong and united COSATU in mobilizing for the ANC electoral victory”.
COSATU President Zingiswa Losi will deliver the keynote address, with ANC President Cyril Ramaphosa and the South African Communist Party General Secretary Solly Mapaila expected to deliver messages of support.
The rally is expected to be attended by traditional leaders, the South African National Civic Organization (SANCO), faith-based formations, youth formations, various departments, and all other stakeholders in the province.
Various artists will be performing as part of the celebrations, and we have invited surrounding communities to join in the festivities.
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