The Congress of South African Trade Unions has expressed support for the National Union of Mineworkers’ planned strike in opposition to the planned unbundling of Eskom.
The development follows an announcement by Cyril Ramaphosa during the State of the Nation Address that government intends to restructure the power utility as part of efforts to address ongoing challenges in the country’s electricity sector.
Under the proposed plan, an independent transmission entity will be established to take control of Eskom’s transmission assets. Government has said the move is intended to help stabilise electricity generation, supply and distribution.
However, COSATU and NUM have raised concerns about the restructuring, warning that the unbundling process could threaten job security and weaken workers’ rights. The unions have also cautioned that the changes may pave the way for the privatisation of one of South Africa’s key state owned enterprises.
COSATU spokesperson Zanele Sabela said the federation fully supports NUM’s position and plans to urgently engage with government, Eskom and other industry stakeholders regarding the matter.
Meanwhile, NUM has indicated that mass action will begin on Saturday, with marches expected to take place in the Free State and KwaZulu-Natal.
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