Former trade unionist Sigqibo Colin Rani succumbs to Covid-19

2nd July 2020 By: Sane Dhlamini - Creamer Media Senior Contributing Editor and Researcher

Former trade unionist Sigqibo Colin Rani succumbs to Covid-19

The South African Association of Labour Dispute Resolution Practitioners (SALDREP) on Thursday announced the passing of its founding member, former trade unionist and mediator and arbitrator Sigqibo Colin Rani as a result of the coronavirus (Covid-19).

To date South Africa has recorded 159 333 confirmed Covid-19 cases with 2 749 deaths.

Rani commenced his career in the trade union movement as an organiser in the chemical sector but over the last twelve years he has been a Commission for Conciliation Mediation and Arbitrator part-time commissioner and bargaining council panellist. 

SALDREP’s National Committee member Mike Marawu says Rani had a passion for training and mentoring in the field of labour law and dispute resolution.

“It is both tragic and ironic that he took ill after returning to work in order to serve the public by resolving labour disputes and dispensing social justice in the world of work. Rani’s unique combination of professionalism, kindness and sincerity will be missed by all his colleagues. Indeed, it is a loss for the labour market and the profession of dispute resolution. Colin was a very honourable, dedicated and focussed individual and all that he wanted to do was serve and see fairness throughout society, and he did so with the highest professionalism and ethical standards,” said Marawu.

SALDREP will be convening an online memorial service for Rani.