A dramatic incident unfolded at the Cosatu conference in Kempton Park, Gauteng, on Wednesday, when ANC chairperson Gwede Mantashe walked out after being asked to speak last. According to Mantashe, he had always spoken last at the conference, and he saw no reason for the change in protocol. He expressed concerns that some unions within Cosatu were trying to undermine the ANC.
The controversy began when Mantashe was asked to speak after the South African Communist Party (SACP). He declined, stating that it was not customary for the ANC to speak first. Mantashe emphasized that the ANC was the leading force in the alliance and that he saw no reason to change the order. He also expressed concerns that some unions were trying to use the conference to further their own interests.
Cosatu's First Deputy President, Mike Shingange, expressed disappointment at Mantashe's decision to walk out. Shingange stated that Mantashe had not been denied the opportunity to speak and that his actions were uncalled for. He also revealed that Cosatu would be writing to the ANC to express its disappointment at Mantashe's behavior.
Cosatu President, Zingiswa Losi, delivered a message of unity between the ANC and SACP. Losi emphasized that the two parties needed each other and that their alliance was crucial in addressing the country's challenges. She also highlighted the importance of unity among the alliance partners, particularly in the face of challenges such as high unemployment and corruption.
Losi also paid tribute to former President Nelson Mandela, who she said had always recognized the importance of the SACP in supporting the ANC during difficult times. She emphasized that the alliance between the ANC and SACP was critical in promoting the interests of workers and advancing the cause of social justice.
The Cosatu conference is expected to conclude on Thursday, with delegates set to debate and vote on several key issues, including the alliance between the ANC and SACP. The conference has been marked by controversy, with some unions walking out in protest at the last minute. The outcome of the conference is expected to have significant implications for the alliance between the ANC and SACP.
Losi urged delegates not to allow personal differences to undermine the unity of the alliance. She emphasized that the alliance was critical in promoting the interests of workers and advancing the cause of social justice. The conference has also highlighted the challenges facing the alliance, including the impact of corruption and unemployment on workers.
Key points
- - The ANC and SACP alliance was critical in promoting the interests of workers and advancing the cause of social justice. - Cosatu President, Zingiswa Losi, emphasized the importance of unity among the alliance partners. - The conference outcome will have significant implications for the alliance between the ANC and SACP.
