COSATU Condemns the Leaking of its Internal Documents 

The Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU)  condemns the leaking of its internal discussions and reports to the media.

The blame for such damaging activity lies not only on the media but on factionalists within our own ranks.

This anti-organisational and divisive behaviour is a disciplinary challenge we face as a federation.

In such cases, the media shows no reservation in picking and selectively quoting from these documents in order to generate sensationalism and bolster newspaper sales.

In the process, untold and immeasurable damage is being inflicted on the internal unity and cohesion of COSATU and its relationship with its allies.

Leaking documents to the media and placing internal discussions in the public arena not only undermines unity but also naturally leads to organisations adopting defensive postures, even in instances where criticism is fair and valid.

The leaking of documents also undermines constructive debates, trust and personal relationships among comrades.

COSATU once again dispels the myth that we are a federation divided into camps informed by ANC factions. 

It is not true that the COSATU President is pro a second term and General Secretary is anti second term for this and that leader.

It is equally untrue that COSATU affiliated unions are divided along these lines. The federation, including its leaders, has not entertained leadership debates and completely rejects the preoccupation with leadership contests in the face of the disheartening challenges of unemployment, poverty and inequality facing the working class in this country. These daunting challenges demand organisational unity, undivided and energy.

Statement issued by Phindile Kunene, Shopsteward Magazine Editor, COSATU, April 25 2012

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