Taking COSATU Today Forward, 25 April 2024 #CosatuMayDay2024
Norman Mampane
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COSATU TODAY Dear workers: #MayDay is just a few days away. Let’s come out with our families to celebrate the #InternationalWorkersDay in nine provinces #ElijahBarayiBrigades #VoteANC #ClassStruggle “Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism” #Back2Basics #JoinCOSATUNow #ClassConsciousness |
Taking COSATU Today Forward
‘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
25 April 2024
“Build Working Class Unity for Economic Liberation towards Socialism”
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Contents
- Workers Parliament: Back to Basics!
- Media Alert: Journalists are invited to apply for media accreditation for International Workers' Day rallies across all nine provinces
- South Africa
- Director-General Phindile Baleni announces recipients of national orders
- International-Workers’ Solidarity!
- WFTU commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Carnation Revolution
Workers’ Parliament-Back2Basics
Media Alert: Journalists are invited to apply for media accreditation for International Workers' Day rallies across all nine provinces
Matthew Parks, COSATU Acting National Spokesperson & Parliamentary Coordinator, 23 April 2024
The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) invites journalist to apply for media accreditation to attend International Workers’ Day celebrations on 1 May 2024. The Federation will host rallies across all nine provinces. Below are the venues, times and contact details.
Western Cape (Main event)
Venue: Athlone Stadium, Cape Town
Keynote Address: Cde Zingiswa Losi, COSATU President
Time: 10:00
Contact: Cleo...@cosatu.org.za Siya...@cosatu.org.za 0661943618 Mal...@cosatu.org.za
Northern Cape
Venue: AR Abass Stadium, Kimberley
Keynote Address: Cde Freda Oosthuysen, COSATU National Treasurer
Time: 09:00
Contact: Orap...@cosatu.org.za Tha...@cosatu.org.za 0794819077
Limpopo
Venue:
Mahwelereng Stadium, Mokopane
Keynote Address: Cde Duncan Luvuno, COSATU 2nd Deputy President
Time: 09:00
Contact: Hang...@cosatu.org.za Toe...@cosatu.org.za 0723409489
KwaZulu-Natal
Venue: Curries Fountain Stadium, Durban
Keynote Address: Cde Solly Phetoe, COSATU General Secretary
Time: 09:00
Contact: Ed...@cosatu.org.za Cot...@cosatu.org.za 0823395760
Gauteng
Venue: Dobsonville Stadium, Soweto
Keynote
Address:
Cde Michael Shingange, COSATU 1st Deputy President
Time: 09:00
Contact: lmod...@cosatu.org.za
Molo...@cosatu.org.za
0718735238
Free State
Venue: Phuthaditjhaba Stadium, Qwaqwa
Keynote Address: Cde Gerald Twala, COSATU Deputy General Secretary
Time: 09:00
Contact: Mony...@cosatu.org.za Mon...@cosatu.org.za 0723087658
Eastern Cape
Venue: WSU Stadium, Mthatha Campus
Keynote Address: Cde Nyameka Macanda, NEHAWU 1st Deputy President
Time: 10:00
Contact: mkhaw...@cosatu.org.za Mz...@cosatu.org.za 0674104666
Mpumalanga
Venue: Secunda Stadium
Keynote Address: Cde Mduduzi Mbongwe, SACCAWU General Secretary
Time: 10:00
Contact: Th...@cosatu.org.za Ja...@cosatu.org.za 0737502041
North West:
Venue: Ikageng Stadium, Potchefstroom
Keynote Address: Cde Dan Balipile, NUM President
Time: 10:00
Contact: Kop...@cosatu.org.za Kab...@cosatu.org.za 0674104696
Director-General Phindile Baleni announces recipients of national orders
23 Apr 2024
Statement by the Chancellor of the National Orders, Director—General in The Presidency Ms Phindile Baleni on the announcement of the recipients of national orders
It is my privilege as Chancellor of the National Orders to announce the names of those South Africans and foreign nationals who will be awarded National Orders at an investiture ceremony to be held on Tuesday 30 April 2024.
National Orders are the highest awards that our country, through the President, bestows on our citizens and eminent foreign nationals who have contributed towards the advancement of democracy and who have made a significant impact on improving the lives of South Africans.
The National Orders also recognise the contributions made by individuals who contributed and continue to contribute to the building of a non-racial, non-sexist, democratic and prosperous South Africa as envisaged in our Constitution.
His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa will bestow on deserving recipients the Order of Mendi for Bravery, the Order of Ikhamanga, the Order of the Baobab, the Order of Luthuli, the Order of Mapungubwe, and the Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.
The Order of Mendi for Bravery recognises South African citizens who have performed acts of bravery.
The order of mendi in silver
Ms Mawilliams Kekana: For her generosity and courageous act of sheltering freedom fighters during a time where it was illegal to align with revolutionaries. She offered her house as a safe haven for liberation stalwarts against the hostile security police.
Ignatius “Iggy” Mthebule (PH): for his gallant fight against an unjust system of apartheid. He is among many lost sons and daughters whose demise in the hands of security police remains unknown as he disappeared without a trace. This was at the height of political upheaval where opposition was brutally silenced.
Despite
his disappearance, he left an indelible mark of courage and leadership.
Mr Makhwezi Mcdonald Mtulu (PH): for his excellent contribution to the liberation of the people of South Africa.
He responded to the brave call to join the military wing of the ANC forsaking the safety of his home to the fight for freedom and died in the process of executing the armed struggle.
Mr Robert Anthony basil Waterwitch (PH): for courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the
apartheid government. He ultimately lost his life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
Ms Coline Denise Williams (PH): for courageously pushing back against the oppressive system of the apartheid government. She ultimately lost her life for the ideals of freedom in the middle of the war against racism and inequality.
The
order of Ikhamanga recognises South African citizens who have excelled in the fields of arts, culture, literature, music, journalism and sport.
The order of Ikhamanga in gold
Ms Nontando (Noni) Helen Jabavu (PH): for her excellent contribution in the field of journalism and scholarship on the liberation struggle. Her affinity to history and storytelling through journalism informed and enlightened the nation.
Mr Aggrey Klaaste (PH): for his exceptional contribution to quality journalism and as a reporter exposing the cruelties of apartheid and encouraging unity among the people of different political persuasions to fight for liberation. He was a nation builder
with a vision for an equal and thriving society.
Mr Madala Muzwakhe Kunene: for his exceptional contribution to the arts, especially jazz music, using home-brewed sounds that are unique to South Africa. He has collaborated with some of the best talents in our country.
The
order of ikhamanga in silver
Mr Angus Gibson: for his contribution to filmmaking; he strived to provide a safe haven for black artists at a time when discrimination was Normalised and practiced with impunity. His collaborations produced iconic narratives of South African history
and youth culture.
Mr Emile Lester Jansen: For his contribution in the field of arts and hip hop culture in South Africa. His artistry and activism formulated a unique lexicon now firmly known as Afrikaap, explaining the African origins of hip hop.
Ms
Saray Nkusi Khumalo: for being an inspiring way-maker for many women through her quest of summiting seven mountains while raising funds. She inspires every African child to pursue what may seem to be impossible dreams.
Ms Sophie Msoziswa Mahlangu: for her excellent contribution to the development of indigenous Ndebele arts. Her commitment to passing on knowledge to younger generations is commendable; she has become a bridge connecting generations.
Ms Madosini Latozi Mphahleni (PH): for her exceptional service in preserving and elevating indigenous South African musical traditions. In a rapidly changing world, she stood as a guardian of these ancient sounds, ensuring they were not forgotten. Her
commitment to passing on her knowledge to younger generations was unmatched, safeguarding the nation's identity and cultural heritage.
Mr Trevor Dundas Mweli Skota (PH): for his contribution to the promotion of black African knowledge by his trailblazing work, including a biographical dictionary of notable black figures on the continent.
The
order of the baobab recognises South African citizens who have contributed to community service, business and economy, science, medicine and technological innovation.
The order of the baobab in gold
Ms Blanche Valeria la Guma (PH): for her courageous fight for social justice and equality for all South Africans. She lived by the courage of her convictions and fought for the rights of workers and the liberation of the oppressed.
Ms Zukiswa Patricia Matolengwe: for her commitment to realizing social justice for the homeless and downtrodden using ingenious means of Stokvels for financial empowerment.
Her tireless work in providing dignified living space for the homeless is laudable. The order of Luthuli recognises South African citizens who have contributed to the struggle for democracy, nation-building, building democracy and human rights, justice and peace as well as for the resolution of conflict.
The order of Luthuli in gold
Mr Mxolisi ‘Dicky’ Jacobs (PH): for his ultimate sacrifice to the struggle for liberation. His life ended defending the principles of a just and equal society. Although his life was cut short, he remains a towering stalwart of the struggle who laid down his life for the liberation of his people.
Mr
Peter Cyril jones (PH):
for his courageous contribution in Mobilising communities across the length and breadth of South Africa. He was one of the leading lights advocating for black consciousness message of self-reliance, pride and self-affirmation for the oppressed people of our
land.
Mr Benjamin Langa (PH): for his ultimate sacrifice for equality and social justice in South Africa. He endured unimaginable pain and remained loyal to the cause until the end. His legacy remains a beacon of light and inspiration to many.
Mr Thobekile ‘Tobsy’ Madaka (PH): for his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. He fearlessly spoke truth to power and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the
wrath of the oppressive regime.
Mr Siphiwo Mthimkhulu (PH): for his gallant fight against the oppression of our people. His fearlessness and leadership belied his age as he boldly confronted the forces of oppression and eventually gave his life for the democracy of South Africa. He
lived by the courage of his convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime.
Prof.
Harry Ranwedzi Nengwekhulu:
for his gallant fight for the liberation of the people of South Africa. He has straddled academia and political activism with a goal of a free South Africa always in his mind and has served as a source of inspiration for many black consciousness activists
and others.
Mr Kenneth Rachidi (PH): for his courage to face a repressive government and resist its unjust laws that promoted inequality. He lived by the ethics of black consciousness and Conscientised many. His activism and vocal opposition to oppression remains
a legacy and inspiration to South Africans.
Ms Annie Silinga (PH): for her commitment to the liberation struggle. She played a leading role in some of the liberation campaigns. She continued to campaign against passes at national and local events.
Ms Nokuthula Simelane (PH): for her incredible bravery in the face of brutal security operatives.
She lived by the courage of her convictions and faced the wrath of the oppressive regime. Her ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of all South Africans will remain in the annals of our nation’s history.
The
order of Mapungubwe recognises South Africans who have accomplished excellence and exceptional achievement to the benefit of South Africa and beyond.
The order of Mapungubwe in silver
Prof Mulalo Doyoyo (PH): for his enormous contribution to the academia and research in the field of aerospace. His outstanding work continues to open doors. The sciences have been enhanced by his participation and young aspirant scientists looked up
to him as a mentor.
The order of the companions of or Tambo recognises eminent foreign nationals and other foreign dignitaries for friendship shown to South Africa. It is therefore an order of peace, cooperation and active expression of solidarity and support.
The
order of the companions of or Tambo in silver
Mr Huub Bammens—the Netherlands: for his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via radio freedom. His technical skills were used to build studios for the liberation movement.
Ms Donna Katzin—United States of America: for her innovative thinking in assisting post-apartheid south African business get ethical investments by promoting networking between South African business and American investors
Mr Ken Luckhardt—Canada: for his selfless service for South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; he organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
Sir Nicholas Stadlen—United Kingdom (PH): for his steadfast standing with the South African liberation movement at a time when it was not convenient to do so. He believed in equality and supported exiles as a friend of South Africa.
Mr Fulco van Aurich—the Netherlands: for his contribution to promoting awareness of human rights violations by the South African apartheid government to the world via radio freedom. He organized and developed the campaign in the Netherlands to support
radio freedom.
Ms Brenda wall—Canada: for her selfless service for South Africa through anti-apartheid activism; she organised a mass disruptive protest against a visiting English cricket team that had links with apartheid sport.
We congratulate the recipients and call on all South Africans to join us in celebrating these outstanding South Africans and distinguished friends of South Africa.
Media
enquiries:
Vincent Magwenya
Spokesperson
to the president
E-mail: me...@presidency.gov.za
Issued by The Presidency
International-Solidarity
WFTU commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Carnation Revolution
24 Apr 2024
On the occasion of the 50th anniversary, the Carnation Revolution is commemorated, as a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of the people. This day is a landmark in history where ordinary people rose against oppression, to build a regime of freedom and democracy for the social and political emancipation of the workers and the people and to affirm national sovereignty and independence, embodying the spirit of solidarity, unity, resilience and militancy.
The Carnation Revolution, which took place on April 25, 1974 led to the fall of the dictatorship regime, the end of Portuguese colonialism in Africa, and the transition of Portugal from an authoritarian regime to a democratic state.
The World Federation of Trade Unions intensified its principled struggles for social justice, workers’ rights, and equality that were at the heart of this revolution. We commemorated the courage of those who stood up for their rights and changed the course of history.
This anniversary inspires us to continue the struggle for a human-centered world where social justice will prevail, and the worker will enjoy the fruits of their labor. We stand together, united, and committed to the principles of internationalism and class solidarity until the emancipation of the working class and the abolition of all kinds of exploitation and oppression.
Today, as the achievements and demands of the carnation revolution are being questioned and under attack, we salute the Portuguese working class and the class-oriented trade union movement. We express our solidarity with their struggles to complete and achieve their goals and visions.
______________________________
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