SACP STATEMENT ON THE SITUATION AT IMPALA MINES

The SACP is concerned at the prolonged unprotected strike at the Impala Mines outside Rustenburg We are more particularly disturbed by the violence that has characterised the strike and the loss of life in the course of the strike. The SACP sends its condolences to the bereaved families (see report).

The SACP condemns the use of violence to drive the wedge amongst workers and take them out on an unprotected strike mainly perpetuated by forces that are anti-union in their outlook. The actions of the employer in implementing salary adjustment outside the collective agreements also have contributed to fuelling these actions. Fuelling violence and the breakdown of unity amongst the workers in such a way is reminiscent of apartheid style of causing divisions amongst the workers; weaken the union in order for capitalist profitability to grow.

The SACP supports the efforts undertaken by the NUM to restore stability at the Impala mines, to engage with the employer to resolve the outstanding issues and save the lives of the workers. Worker unity is sacrosanct and must at all times be maintained. Those who seek to undermine worker unity are only driven by short-termism and are digging a grave for themselves as soon the same workers will turn against them.

We appeal for calm and that the union is allowed to play its role at Impala mines.

Statement issued by Malesela Maleka, SACP Spokesperson, February 21 2012

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