×

We've got news for you.

Register on SowetanLIVE at no cost to receive newsletters, read exclusive articles & more.
Register now

ANC, Cosatu election row

Ido Lekota

Ido Lekota

The ANC has accused Cosatu in North West of undermining its right to elect its own leaders.

In a statement yesterday, the ANC's national working committee (NWC) said it was concerned "over the opportunistic and unprincipled conduct of Cosatu in the North West province."

The statement is in response to Cosatu North West's recent announcement of a list indicating the labour federation's preference as to who should be elected into leadership positions at the ANC's forthcoming provincial conference.

"The NWC wishes to reiterate that the nomination and election of leaders of the ANC, from branch executive committees to the NEC, remain the exclusive right and duty of ANC structures.

"The ANC believes that lobbying is natural but touting a list of candidates on behalf of the ANC is tantamount to disrespect for the structures of the movement," read the statement.

Last week Cosatu's North West provincial executive committee agreed on Laone Lebelo as the party's provincial chairman, Grace Pampiri as deputy chairman, Zakes Molale as deputy secretary and Maureen Modiselle as treasurer.

"These are the positions to be canvassed to the ANC and other interested parties because we believe it will serve the interests of the working class and the poor in this province," said Cosatu provincial chairman Deon Noqwana.

Cosatu and the ANC were involved in a spat before last year's national conference.

This was after Cosatu general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi had said re-electing Thabo Mbeki as ANC president would lead to divisions within the tripartite alliance.

Would you like to comment on this article?
Register (it's quick and free) or sign in now.

Speech Bubbles

Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.