Cosatu says it respects GNU but expects DA to protect workers’ rights

Johnathan Paoli

THE Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) says while it respects the decision by the African National Congress (ANC) to form a government of national unity with parties such as the Democratic Alliance (DA), it expects the DA to cooperate with the agenda of transformation and ensure the protections of workers.

The trade union congress held a media briefing at COSATU House, its headquarters in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, with General Secretary Solly Phetoe welcoming the signing of the GNU’s Statement of Intent (SOI) and calling for the protection of workers’ rights.

Phetoe said while Cosatu was only briefed and not consulted on the formation of the GNU – it fully expected, with or without the DA – to guard against the reversal of the progress and gains made over the last three decades.

COSATU first deputy president Mike Shingange elaborated on the need for maintaining the country’s path