COSATU general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi yesterday refused to apologise for insinuating that Communications Minister Siphiwe Nyanda is linked to corruption.

Vavi was given until last night to apologise but his legal representative wrote to Nyanda's lawyer, Siyabonga Mahlangu, refusing to bow.

"Vavi's lawyer has written to us and they do not intend to apologise. We will consult our client and senior counsel to consider legal remedies," Mahlangu said.

Nyanda wanted Vavi to apologise after he attacked President Jacob Zuma for failing to act against corrupt ministers.

Vavi said Zuma should investigate Nyanda and Cooperative Government and Traditional Affairs Minister Sicelo Shiceka.

Nyanda instructed Mahlangu to demand a retraction and an apology for allegations that he is morally reprehensible and corrupt.

Cosatu spokesperson Patrick Craven confirmed that Vavi had not apologise. "He will never apologise because there is nothing to apologise for. We have not even received the letter. We think this is a publicity stunt because the media has the letter."