Solidarity won't support any political party in election

The head committee of Solidarity decided today that the trade union will not support a political party in the upcoming local elections. The trade union affirmed its political independence, but encouraged its members to vote.

"We want our members to vote for the political party of their choice. However, we believe that our members' interests will be served best if we don't support a particular political party. We will announce Solidarity members' expectations of political parties before the election. We will encourage our members to vote for parties that are most likely to live up to their expectations," Flip Buys, General Secretary of Solidarity, said.

The national congress of Solidarity will discuss various issues tomorrow. Flip Buys and human rights activist Rhoda Kadalie will address the congress on the national climate and confidence, following the mounting tension emanating from, among other things, the hate speech case against Julius Malema and statements made by Jimmy Manyi.

Solidarity's congress will also consider a motion to embark on a constitutional court case against the South African government regarding the government's application of affirmative action.

Statement issued by Solidarity, April 19 2011

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