FORMER NUMSA NATIONAL SPOKESPERSON CASTRO NGOBESE ACCEPTS NUMSA SETTLEMENT OFFER
Thursday, 16 June 2016
Yesterday, Wednesday June 15 2016, I was at the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) for an arbitration in relation to my unfair dismissal by NUMSA early this year – February 10, 2016.
The settlement offer as agreed by both parties ends the strenuous battle I have endured during an emotionally draining debacle.
I have accepted the offer, not because I had any doubt in my case, but did so to free myself from the continued merciless onslaught against me. Doing so was best given what I had endured up until this point.
What was at stake was choosing between fighting to the bitter end in defence of my rights as an official, and saving the union’s image and public standing. I chose to save the union’s symbol of pride which represents the sacrifices made by the toiling masses and in particular its members who I have served with pride and dedication for seven years.
It has never been my intention to pocket from the meagre earnings of workers, workers dues that are supposed to be used to defend workers at the shopfloor and struggle against anti-union practices by our class enemies.
It is within this context that I do not intend to deal with the merits or demerits of my case against NUMSA. All I can say is that purging, victimisation and the abuse of organisational resources or positions of authority have never built any organisation. History will absolve me! And the many others who have faced similar fates.
I extend words of appreciation to all metal workers in particular and all South African workers in general for affording me the rare privilege of serving them for seven years. I executed my responsibilities with military precision, unflinching loyalty and great distinction.
My journey of life continues, I am wiser than yesterday. From this painful experience I have learned the difference between appearance and reality, lies and the undying truth of our struggle.
I remain at the service of the revolution and I will go wherever the revolution calls me.
Statement issued by Castro Ngobese, former NUMSA National Spokesperson, 16 June 2016
