NUM calls for mass mobilization against systematic attacks on the working class this May Day

The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) calls on all members to join the COSATU May Day Rallies across South Africa this Friday, May 1. This call to action comes as the union expresses grave concern over a coordinated and systematic onslaught currently facing the working class.

The Crisis of Retrenchments and Casualization

The NUM is witnessing a disturbing trend in the mining, energy, construction, and metal sectors, where mass retrenchments are being used to dismantle the permanent workforce. We condemn the growing reliance on contractors—a blatant strategy to bypass established labor rights.

This shift toward "slavery salaries" and extreme exploitation is directly resulting in the erosion of workplace dignity and a dangerous decline in health and safety standards.

Assault on Collective Bargaining and Public Services

The union further condemns the coordinated attack on collective bargaining by both the public and private sectors. Combined with harsh austerity measures, the government’s failure to provide essential services has left working-class communities in a state of neglect. This systemic failure is further compounded by:

• The Rising Cost of Living: Rapidly depleting the disposable income of workers and their families.

• A National Unemployment Crisis: A staggering 33% unemployment rate that remains unaddressed.

• Unchecked Crime: A breakdown in safety that threatens our members both at work and in their homes.

A Call to Action

The struggle for a living wage and job security is far from over. The NUM urges every member to mobilize and attend the May Day Rallies in full force. We must stand united to defend our hard-won rights and demand an end to the exploitation of the working class.

United We Stand, Divided We Fall

For more information, please contact:

Livhuwani Mammburu, NUM National Spokesperson, 083 809 3257

The National Union of Mineworkers
7 Rissik Street.
Cnr Frederick Johannesburg
Tel: 011 377 2111 Cell: 083 809 3257
Twitter: @Num_Media

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/NUM/10086002340216