COSATU 15th National Congress

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) convened its 15th National Congress in Midrand from September 14 to 17, 2026. The event brought together approximately 1,800 delegates from 16 affiliated unions to address leadership, economic, and political challenges.

A primary objective of the congress was the election of new National Office Bearers. Internal competition emerged for key positions, including a contest to replace President Zingiswa Losi, with Mike Shingange receiving support from the National Union of Mineworkers and the SA Municipal Workers. Additionally, Mabutho Cele from the SA Democratic Teachers’ Union contested the first deputy presidency.

Politically, the federation faced critical decisions regarding its role in the 2026 Local Government Elections. Delegates deliberated on whether to support the African National Congress (ANC) or the South African Communist Party (SACP), a decision complicated by the SACP’s intention to contest the elections independently.

Economic discussions centered on rising living costs, declining membership, the impact of new technologies on job security, and updates to the Labour Relations Act.