THE knives are out for Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi after several leaders of the labour federation's affiliates raised concerns about his leadership style and agreed to institute an investigation against him.

Union leaders who attended Cosatu's central executive committee meeting, where Vavi was criticised in his presence, confirmed that the Cosatu boss was put under pressure by those who are uncomfortable with his leadership style.

Sowetan understands that Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) leaders led the charge against Vavi. Among other contentious issues that emerged were:

l A need to investigate Cosatu's financial books,

l Disclosure of the identity of the buyers of the building Cosatu previously used as its headquarters, and

l Investigation into claims that some of Cosatu's service providers, who decorated its new building in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, may have links with Vavi's family.

Three leaders, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed the discussions and said it was agreed that internal processes be followed to investigate all allegations.

Sowetan understands that Vavi seemed aware of the plan on the first day of the meeting and told the leaders that those who wanted to deal with him should go ahead.

The big unions, which included the troubled National Union of Mineworkers, Popcru, National Education, Health and Allied Workers Union, South African Democratic Teachers Union, South African Transport and Allied Workers Union and some national office bearers are believed to want Vavi's removal.

A senior Cosatu leader said Cosatu went to its congress last September divided and officers were re-elected with the hope that they would unite the labour federation.

Cosatu spokesman Patrick Craven did not want to comment yesterday and said: "Please come to the press conference at 11am tomorrow [today]."