COSATU is seeking an urgent meeting with its Alliance partners to discuss these matters.
COSATU’s CEC noted with grave concern, current
processes surrounding these conspiracy allegations. The public announcement by the Minnister of Safety and Security of the investigation of leading members of the
democratic movement in thatis connection, is particularly serious. It is highly irresponsible to announce the names of people subject to investigations, long before any final conclusions
have been reached. This violates the due process of law and can harm the security of the individuals involved. Furthermore, it aggravates the spread of rumours and fear.
It is critical that these allegations do not lead to measures that will undermine democratic processes and the rule of law, either within the ANC or in the broader society.
The long tradition of open debate and political contestation in the democratic movement needs to be defended and consolidated. COSATU therefore particularly welcomes that part of today’s statement by the ANC committing itself to these democratic practices. That tradition must not be undermined by measures that intervene in the normal processes of elections in any of
the Alliance partners. At the same time the CEC is absolutely opposed to rumour mongering and character assassination of any individuals, regardless of who these individuals are.
Further, if the allegations are true, it is absolutely unacceptable for physical threats to be used by anyone in pursuit of their political objectives. COSATU will support
any investigation by the police into genuine threats to our leadership, but would caution against any temptation by state organs, including the police, to involve themselves in
legitimate internal political contestation, which in fact would be entirely unconstitutional, and therefore illegal. It is absolutely important that the spirit of democracy and
the constitution is seen to be upheld, and that any fear that organs of state are being abused to intervene in internal political disputes is decisively dispelled.
The COSATU would welcome the investigation of the
police into genuine threats to our leadership, but rejects
their involvement in normal internal political
events.COSATU CEC appeals to all South Africans,
including members of the Alliance to address these
issues in a calm and sober way and avoid contributing to
anan atmosphere of paranoia, hysteria, and witch hunts.
To overcome the challenges we face as the democratic
movement, wWe must create a climate of open debate
and reasoned argument. This is both in the interests of
our country, and the democratic movement.

Siphiwe Mgcina
COSATU Spokesperson

[email protected]
082-821-7456
339-4911

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