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The Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA) wants to place it on record that it has not been mandated by its members to take part in the protests planned for Monday, the 20th of March, across the country and will therefore not take part in the action. 

While the federation is cognisant of the various challenges South Africans are faced with, including the continued rolling power cuts (load-shedding), we have sought to be part of the collective leadership of the country working towards solutions to these multiple crises. 

FEDUSA respects the rights of those who will be taking part in the action and encourages peaceful demonstrations. We also want to remind those who will partake in the strikes, given that it is now covered under Section 77, to be cognisant of the fact that all rights must be exercised responsibly for the greater good of all. 

We have noted the assurances by the government’s JCPS cluster that Monday will be a normal business day in the Republic. We trust that the measures put in place to safeguard lives and livelihoods will be sufficient should the protests take a turn for the worst. 

Furthermore, the federation wishes those who have made plans to take leave from work on the 20th, taking advantage of the Human Rights Day holiday on the 21st, a good break. May we all use the holiday to reflect on the strides made in realising the many rights we enjoy, while reflecting on the realities of the vulnerable groups who are yet to live freely in South Africa despite their rights being enshrined in the Constitution. 

Issued by FEDUSA