SACP Statement – National Disaster on May Day
The South African Communist Party (SACP) is saddened by the tragic death on May Day of more than 60 workers, many of whom belonging to SAMWU, a COSATU affiliate. The tragic death of these comrades happens on a day when we not only celebrate nine years of democratic rule but also commemorate the lives of many workers who have died in a struggle for decent working and living conditions.
We send our condolences to the family of the bereaved and are with them at this time of difficulty. We send our warm wishes to COSATU and call its leadership to maintain strength during this time.
As we honour these fallen comrades, we recommit the SACP to continue a just and moral fight against poverty, joblessness and injustice.
The SACP calls on all its members and supporters to mourn the death of these comrades. In this regard, we dedicate this week to mourn their death.
We call for a full and speedy investigation in order to determine the cause of the accident.
When South Africa’s history is written, these comrades would have died on duty, serving the cause of the working class.
We ask all our members in the Northern Cape particularly in Kimberly to do all they can to ensure that these comrades are buried in a manner deserving of their heroic contribution to struggle for total emancipation of the working class.
The SACP express its gratitude to the People's Bank for moving speedily to establish a fund to help bury our comrades. We ask as many people as possible to make a contribution to this fund so that our comrades can be buried in dignity.
For more information and inquiries contact
Solly Mapaila, National Organiser on 082 886 3526