COSATU shocked at death of union leader

The Congress of South African Trade Unions is deeply shocked, saddened and angry at the discovery of the body of Comrade Mbuyiselo Phajana (Sam) Mnguni, the Free State Regional Chairperson of the Chemical, Energy, Paper, Printing, Wood and Allied Workers Union.

Comrade Mnguni had been missing from 23 October 2014, until his body was discovered, on 31 October, in the Vaal dam under a bridge in Orangeville. His car is still missing. The police suspect foul play and are investigating. Provincial investigators have been brought in to back up the Sasolburg police.

Comrade Mnguni had played a key role in mobilising support for the SAMWU municipal workers in the Metsimaholo local municipality, who had been on strike and were then locked out by their employers, who had reneged on agreements and dismissed shop stewards. He was instrumental in getting COSATU leaders to intervene to try to resolve this dispute.

His loss is a huge tragedy. COSATU sends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, comrades in the union and fellow workers.

Statement issued by Patrick Craven, COSATU national spokesperson, November 5 2014

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