Showusa promises workers better conditions at workplace

eMBALENHLE – The leadership of Shosholoza Workers Union of South Africa (Showusa) promised to help their members achieve better working conditions at the workplace.

The trade union was registered and issued a certificate by the Department of Labour on 17 February.

Their founders are from the Mpumalanga branch of the National Union of Democratic and Progressive Workers (Nudpw) that was de-registered by the department last year.

Mr Bruce Nhlazane is the president, Mr Patrick Mndlovu is the deputy president, Mr Abner Magagula is the general secretary and Ms Monkie Selepe is the deputy secretary.

Ms Zodwa Sindane is the national treasurer, Mr Bhekimpi Vilakazi is the national organiser and Mr Jonas Mofokeng is the spokesman.

Mr Mofokeng said the union’s functions are in line with the legislation governing trade unions in the country.

He said they will help and represent workers, at their request, with grievances and disciplinary hearings.

The union will also monitor the employer’s compliance with the Labour Relations Act, laws regulating terms and conditions of employment and any collective agreement.

Mr Mofokeng said they are aiming at recruiting the members that belonged to NUDPW, including those who were dismissed by Sasol Mining for taking part in an unprotected strike in 2009.

Showusa officials are using the office that was used by NUDPW at the Small Business Centre.

Mr Page Boikanyo, spokesman for the department, confirmed that Showusa is registered with them.

He said NUDPW was de-regristered because it did not comply with legal requirements and for unconstitutional conduct and doubt in the leaders who were running the union.