Taking COSATU Today Forward Special Bulletin, 8 May 2026
Norman Mampane
|
COSATU TODAY COSATU Call Center Contacts: 010 002 2590 Today, it’s #CosatuRedFridays #ClassSolidarity #ClassWar #Cosatu40 #SACTU70 #ClassStruggle “Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism” #Back2Basics #JoinCOSATUNow #ClassConsciousness |
Taking COSATU Today Forward Special Bulletin
‘Whoever sides with the revolutionary people in deed as well as in word is a revolutionary in the full sense’-Maoo
Our side of the story
8 May 2026
“Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism”
Organize at every workplace and demand respect for labour rights Now!
Defend Jobs Now!
Join COSATU NOW!
Contents
- Workers Parliament: Back to Basics!
- Media Advisory: SACCAWU Media Conference on looming Pick 'n Pay retrenchments
- Strengthening Compliance in Private Security: Department of Employment and Labour Convenes Employer Session in Gqeberha
- South Africa
-
COSATU notes the Constitutional Court directive to Parliament on the Phala Phala Report
Presidency notes Constitutional Court judgment in the case challenging the National Assembly’s decision - South African Communist Party Statement on the SACP and SANCO bilateral meeting
- Minister Parks Tau welcomes China’s temporary zero-tariff preference scheme for South African exports
- International-Workers’ Solidarity!
- Deaths in certified shipbreaking yards expose enforcement failures
- Asia Pacific unions tackle low wages in the garment sector
Workers’ Parliament-Back2Basics
Media Advisory: SACCAWU Media Conference on looming Pick 'n Pay retrenchments
SITHEMBELE TSHWETE, SACCAWU National Spokesperson, 8 May 2026
The South African Commercial, Catering and Allied Workers' Union (SACCAWU) has scheduled to hold a media conference on looming retrenchment of more than 22 000 employees at Pick 'n Pay.
SACCAWU is convening a two-day National meeting of Pick 'n Pay to discuss the proposed retrenchments in the company that will affect 22 000 employees.
Media is invited to a media conference on Monday, 11th May 2026 to unfold the Union's pushback approach.
The media conference will be held as follows:
Date: 11th May 2026
Venue: SACCAWU Office
11 Leyds street, Braamfontein
Johannesburg, 2017
Time: 10h00
Media houses and journalists are invited to come and cover the media conference.
Issued by SACCAWU
SITHEMBELE TSHWETE
SACCAWU National Spokesperson
Mobile: 0823365363
0739563108
_______________________
Strengthening Compliance in Private Security: Department of Employment and Labour Convenes Employer Session in Gqeberha
08 May 2026
The Department of Employment and Labour, through its Inspection and Enforcement Services branch, will host an employer session aimed at strengthening workplace compliance within the Private Security Sector.
The objective of the session is to provide guidance on key labour programmes and services, foster open dialogue and strengthen the relationship between the Department and employers as key stakeholders in the employment environment.
The following topics will be covered:
• UIF Compliance
• Compensations for Occupational Injuries & Diseases Act (COIDA)
• Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA)
• Public Employment Services (PES)
• Inspection and Enforcement Services
• Basic Conditions of Employment Act (BCEA)
The session will be held as follows:
Date: 08 May 2026
Time: 09H00
Venue: City Hall in Gqeberha
Media representatives are kindly requested to RSVP with Cebisa Siyobi, at 072 427 6034 / Cebisa...@labour.gov.za
For media enquiries, please contact:
Teboho Thejane
Departmental Spokesperson
082 697 0694/ teboho....@labour.gov.za
-ENDS-
Issued by: Department of Employment and Labour
South Africa #ClassSolidarity
COSATU
notes the Constitutional Court directive to Parliament on the Phala Phala Report
Matthew
Parks, COSATU Parliamentary Coordinator, 08 May 2026
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) notes the Constitutional Court directive to Parliament on the Phala Phala Report by Justice Sandile Ngcobo, specifically that the Legislature must establish a parliamentary committee to consider and vote upon
the Report.
The Federation respects the constitutional role of the judiciary and in particular its mandate to hold the executive accountable without fear or favour.
We appreciate the manner in which President Cyril Ramaphosa has sought to affirm the independence of the judiciary at all times and to subject himself to its full scrutiny as the Head of State.
We await Parliament’s consideration of this weighty issue and urge Members of Parliament to approach this serious matter for workers and the nation, with the necessary sobriety. These are times of immense global and domestic instability which pose real threats
to the nation. They require cool and calm heads and less twerking for social media likes or sound bites for television cameras let alone rash or emotional actions.
We are heartened that South Africa is a constitutional democracy where everyone, including Heads of State, is subject to parliamentary oversight, judicial scrutiny and public verdicts. Such constitutional principles must not be taken for granted as we have
seen in many other peer nations from the Americas to Africa, Europe and Asia have found even the most established democracies’ institutions fragile to manipulation.
The Federation urges Parliament to consider this matter with the necessary meticulous and foresight. We cannot afford for the legislature to cut or be seen to cut corners. It is important that Parliament be given the space to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities.
It is equally critical that the Bill of Rights’ assurance of the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty be upheld for all citizens, including a Head of State.
Issued by COSATU
_______________________
Presidency notes Constitutional Court judgment in the case challenging the National Assembly’s decision
08 May 2026
Statement
on the Constitutional Court Judgement on Economic Freedom Fighters V Speaker of the National Assembly
The Presidency has noted the judgment of the Constitutional Court in the case brought by the Economic Freedom Fighters challenging the National Assembly’s decision with respect to Section 89 proceedings against the President.
President Cyril Ramaphosa respects the Constitutional Court’s judgment and reaffirms his commitment to the Constitution, the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.
President Ramaphosa has been consistent in providing his full assistance to the various enquiries into this matter.
President Ramaphosa maintains that no person is above the law and that any allegations should be subjected to due process without fear, favour or prejudice.
The President calls on all South Africans to respect the Constitutional Court judgment and all judicial institutions.
Media
enquiries:
Vincent Magwenya
Spokesperson
to President Ramaphosa
E-mail: me...@presidency.gov.za
Issued by The Presidency
_____________________
South African Communist Party Statement on the SACP and SANCO bilateral meeting
Mbulelo Mandlana, SACP Head of Media, Communications and Information, 8 May 2026
The South African Communist Party (SACP) and South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO) met in a bilateral meeting on 7 May 2026 in Johannesburg.
The SACP delegation was led by General Secretary Comrade Solly Mapaila, while the SANCO delegation was led by President Comrade Richard Mkhungo.
The bilateral focused on strengthening the relations between the two organisations and reviving a working partnership on important national political issues.
The meeting discussed the overall state of the Alliance and our common ongoing engagements to advance the National Democratic Revolution as the uniting programme through the auspices of the Alliance and by engaging our communities more directly.
With SANCO being an organisation rooted in the communities as a civic organisation, as the SACP we seek to deepen cooperation with SANCO to ensure that we expand our collaboration in community struggles. In light of this, the meeting discussed the upcoming Conference of the Left and agreed on further engagements with regard to a possible participation of SANCO in the conference.
The bilateral meeting affirmed continued cooperation between the organisations and the taking forward of working-class centred struggles.
ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN COMMUNIST PARTY,
FOUNDED IN 1921 AS THE COMMUNIST PARTY OF SOUTH AFRICA.
Media, Communications & Information Department | MCID
_____________________
Minister Parks Tau welcomes China’s temporary zero-tariff preference scheme for South African exports
08 May 2026
The Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau welcomes the announcement by the Government of the People’s Republic of China regarding the introduction of a temporary zero-tariff preference scheme for 20 non-least developed African countries, including South Africa.
This measure follows an announcement by President Xi on 14 February 2026, that China will implement zero-tariff to African countries that it has diplomatic relations. The least developed countries are already enjoying the duty-free treatment in the Chinese market following the announcement at the Forum for China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC).
From 1 May 2026 to 30 April 2028, qualifying South African goods exported to China will benefit from zero customs duties under this scheme, subject to compliance with the applicable tariff schedule and rules of origin.
Exporters are advised that access to the preference is conditional on meeting the prescribed rules of origin, including product-specific requirements, and on submitting a valid Certificate of Origin, for customs clearance in China.
The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) is working with the South African Revenue Services (SARS) on the customs procedures and the necessary changes to legislation that need to be implemented, including with regard to issuing the certificate of origin. In relation to products already in the water, if a certificate of origin is not issued before or at the time of shipment, the importer will have to pay a deposit. After the importer submits the requested documents, the deposit can be refunded. The certificate of origin shall be marked “ISSUED RETROSPECTIVELY” and shall be valid for one year from the date of shipment.
While the scheme applies across a broad range of products, certain goods may be subject to specific conditions, including tariff rate quotas. Exporters are therefore encouraged to familiarise themselves with the detailed tariff schedule and rules of origin documentation to ensure full compliance and optimal utilisation of the preferences.
This preferential market access framework offers a strategic opportunity for South Africa to enhance export competitiveness, diversify into higher-value-added products, and expand market access for agricultural, industrial, and beneficiated goods. It also supports broader national objectives, including industrial development, employment creation, and export-led growth.
the dtic, in collaboration with relevant government departments and stakeholders, has initiated the necessary processes to facilitate the implementation of the preference scheme.
The Export Help Desk within the dtic, will serve as a central point of contact for guidance, queries, and assistance to support traders and guide on the necessary compliance and market access processes. The Export Help Desk can be accessed as follows: exp...@thedtic.gov.za.
In addition, a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document as a guide to exporters will be put on the dtic website.
According to Minister Tau, this zero-tariff treatment preference scheme is signal of strong relations that China has with the African continent and a significant outcome of FOCAC 2024. The scheme offers South African exporters a meaningful opportunity to expand into one of the world’s largest and most dynamic consumer markets. Further, Minister added that these developments compliment the diversification strategy initiated by the dtic aimed at creating resilience of the South African economy.
The links to the tariff schedule with qualifying products and the rules of origin can be accessed at:
For tariff schedule:
http://gss.mof.gov.cn/gzdt/zhengcefabu/202604/t20260428_3988616.htm.
For rules of origin:
http://www.customs.gov.cn/customs/2026-04/29/article_2026042908570039662.html
Enquiries:
Ministerial Spokesperson
Kaamil Alli
Cell: 082 520 6813
WhatsApp: 082 520 6813
E-mail: KA...@thedtic.gov.za
Director:
Media Relations
Bongani Lukhele
Tel: (012) 394 1643
Cell: 079 5083 457
WhatsApp: 074 2998 512
E-mail: BLuk...@thedtic.gov.za
Issued by Department of Trade, Industry and Competition
International-Solidarity
Deaths in certified shipbreaking yards expose enforcement failures
7 May, 2026
Two recent incidents in Bangladesh's shipbreaking industry have exposed serious safety failures. Both yards claim compliance with the Hong Kong International Convention (HKC), yet workers continue to face life-threatening risks
On 28 April, a fitter foreman at Janata Steel in Sitakunda suffered severe injuries to his chest, neck and head while dismantling a giant gang stair. He returned to work after just five days. This raises questions about whether workers can take adequate time off without fear of repercussions.
A few weeks earlier an electrician at NB Steel Recycling Yard, operated by KR Ship Recycling Yard, died from an electric shock at work. IndustriALL affiliate Bangladesh Metal Workers’ Federation (BMF) intervened to ensure that the deceased worker’s family received compensation above industry standards. However, the incident highlights deeper systemic failures.
Safe working conditions must be non-negotiable and employers who fail to ensure them must be held accountable. There is a need to establish mechanisms that guarantee long-term support for affected workers and their families.
Transparency and accountability remain weak
KR Ship Recycling Yard recently received a government Green Factory Award for safety, yet it is not compliant in practice. These accidents show that the Bangladeshi government has yet to ensure effective enforcement of the Hong Kong Convention’s standards. Therefore, urgent state intervention is needed.
Even with a framework that mandates audits, training and time-bound oversight, repeated fatalities in certified yards raise serious questions about how these standards are being monitored and enforced in practice. The issue is no longer if standards exist. Instead, it is whether workers have any real power to stop dangerous work before it turns fatal.
IndustriALL director for shipbuilding and shipbreaking, Walton Pantland, says:
“It is heartbreaking to hear of two more accidents in Bangladeshi shipbreaking yards in April, including a fatality. This is the third fatality this year at KR Ship Recycling, a company that is supposed to be HKC compliant and is certified by the government with a DASR. There have been three deaths and 17 injuries in Bangladesh this year, at a time when yards are not particularly busy. This is absolutely unacceptable and shows that no lessons have been learned by the industry.
“It is also tragic that although the EIS scheme is ready to be implemented, it is not in place yet, meaning that the family of the worker who died will not receive a pension. This avoidable death needs to be the catalyst that brings change to the industry. This cannot go on.”
IndustriALL affiliate BMF adds:
“The recent accident in Bangladesh’s ship recycling industry is a tragic reminder of the urgent need for transparency and accountability. A full and independent investigation must uncover the causes of this disaster and workers themselves must be empowered to shape safer futures through active participation in joint OSH committees and by exercising their fundamental right to refuse unsafe work.”
______________________________
Asia Pacific unions tackle low wages in the garment sector
7 May, 2026
Asia Pacific is the engine of global garment and textile production and home to some of its most exploited workers. The region accounts for around 60 per cent of global exports of garments, textiles and footwear and employs more than 40 million workers. Yet for the workers stitching the clothes that fill the shelves of global brands, wages have remained structurally low.
Despite real wage increases in many economies, working conditions have remained poor and characterized by widespread informality and vulnerability. Trade union representatives from across the region met in Penang, Malaysia this week for a two-day workshop on wage setting mechanisms, organized by IndustriALL Global Union and Japanese affiliate UA Zensen. The workshop brought together affiliates to share strategies and build collective capacity to tackle low wages in the sector.
Participants from Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam shared experiences and strategies on wage setting mechanisms, collective bargaining and organizing. Drawing on examples from across the region, the workshop aimed to strengthen their collective capacity to win better wages for garment workers.
Setting the scene: the ILO perspective
Wage policy is the framework through which governments, employers and workers collectively shape wage outcomes. When it functions as a coherent system, it can make an enormous difference. Across Asia, that coherence is often missing. The region has more than 5,000 minimum wage rates; only India has more than 2,000. Yet in countries like Pakistan, one in four workers does not receive even the minimum wage to which they are legally entitled. Informal workers across the region earn roughly half of what formal workers earn.
ILO senior wage expert Xavier Estupinan stressed that setting a minimum wage is only the first step. The real question is whether it is adequate, regularly reviewed, effectively enforced and supported by strong social dialogue.
The ILO’s living wage programme builds on this foundation by bringing together governments, employers and workers to advance effective living wage policies and practices. It rests on two complementary pillars: first, the estimation of living wages and the development of a global wage data hub; and second, the operationalization of living wages in practice, including through technical assistance to countries and sectors ready to act.
IndustriALL’s gender director Armelle Seby warned that wage-setting systems can entrench inequality by institutionalizing the undervaluation of women’s work. Pay transparency and gender-neutral job evaluation are key tools to ensure gender-transformative wage systems. A gender-transformative approach is not an add-on. It must be built into the design of wage policies from the outset, based on gender analysis. Without this, minimum wage frameworks risk replicating, or even widening, the gender pay gap already prevalent in the sector.
The ACT agreement and collective bargaining in practice
The ACT initiative and its work on supply chain industrial relations was presented and discussed. Cambodian affiliates shared their experiences on renegotiating the template CBA, which will be valid for the next three years. They also presented their work on increasing the number of factories signing the agreement.
Wage setting in Japan: lessons from UA Zensen
The workshop also heard from UA Zensen on wage setting in Japan. Union density is shrinking, nearly all unions are company-based and women account for fewer than 30 per cent of union members. Since 2022, the annual Shunto spring wage offensive has delivered general wage increases of around five per cent. However, structural challenges remain. UA Zensen has focused on strengthening bargaining power through leadership training and frameworks for joint action, targeting legislative reform and industry-specific fair labour standards.
“Wages in the garment sector have been kept artificially low for too long. This workshop is about building the union power and knowledge to change that. Because without strong unions at the bargaining table, workers will continue to bear the cost,”
said IndustriALL textile and garment director Christina Hajagos-Clausen.
The regional meeting of IndustriALL’s TGSL network opened the week, before delegates moved into the wage setting workshop. Affiliates from across Asia Pacific came together to share updates and coordinate priorities for the sector.
______________________________
Norman Mampane (Shopsteward Editor)
Congress of South African Trade Unions
110 Jorissen Cnr Simmonds Street, Braamfontein, 2017
P.O.Box 1019, Johannesburg, 2000, South Africa
Tel: +27 11 339-4911 Direct line: 010 219-1348