THE Congress of SA Trade Unions (Cosatu) has pleaded with its allies and "civil society formations" to allow the federation space to deal with its challenges without interference.

Cosatu has been in turmoil since its secretary general Zwelinzima Vavi came under fire from some of the federation's affiliates.

They called for him to be probed for alleged financial impropriety related to the sale of Cosatu House and the "questionable" acquisition of the new building.

Cosatu's national office bearers, who met yesterday, said in a statement that the federation should be afforded space to deal with internal matters.

"We also appeal to our allies and civil society formations to allow Cosatu space to manage its internal issues without pressure from the outside.

"We also appeal to the media to allow us space to address our issues internally," said Cosatu spokesman Patrick Craven, adding that Vavi would rely on his comrades to defend him against attacks on his integrity.

Craven condemned members who leaked internal discussion (documents) to the media and urged them to raise issues internally.