COSATU leadership election and political resolutions

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU) reconvened its 15th national congress in Kempton Park to elect a new leadership team and address internal political tensions. Mike Shingange, formerly president of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers’ Union, was elected president, defeating Mabutho Cele. Zingiswa Losi returned to the role of general secretary.

The congress sought to resolve rifts following a failed September attempt to meet due to credential issues and political friction between the African National Congress (ANC) and the South African Communist Party (SACP). To address these divisions, the federation passed a resolution to support both the ANC and the SACP in the upcoming November 4 municipal elections, noting that many members hold affiliations with both organizations.

In addition to leadership changes, the congress addressed economic challenges such as rising living costs, business closures, and retrenchments. The federation issued resolutions demanding greater accountability in political appointments, opposing outsourcing, and seeking permanent employment for workers in public programs.