Vavi’s self-inflicted pain shouldn’t involve courts
LABOUR union federation Cosatu now has to explain its decision to suspend disgraced general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi in court.
This followed a call by the National Union of Metalworkers of SA for the reversal of the suspension as it was unconstitutional. The union has indicated that it would approach the courts.
It is a very sad state of affairs that a matter as simple as that of Vavi could be decided by the courts.
Vavi was rightfully suspended after admitting to – and apologising for – having an affair with a Cosatu employee, and doing more than just work with her at the federation’s head office in Braamfontein.
A man in Vavi’s position should have known that his wrong decision making and misjudgement mean would bring his name and that of Cosatu into disrepute.
He should have known that even walls have ears, and he would no longer be seen as the same man that for many years fought for the rights of the poor and workers.
His family may have forgiven him, but the public isn’t that easily fooled. Vavi had a weak and stupid moment and should face the consequences of not being able to keep it in his pants.
The reputation and public stature of Vavi crumbled the moment he touched the married woman; it’s as simple as that.
How this became the subject of politicking, mudslinging and name-calling is a mystery and an embarrassment to those involved.
It is often said there is a backlog in courts; this should be cleared first instead of stretching the justice system and its resources on Vavi’s self-inflicted pain.
