NUM warns Eskom restructuring could threaten economy, jobs

Phillip Vilakazi, President of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), has warned that the proposed restructuring of Eskom could negatively impact South Africa's economy and job market. Speaking at a media briefing in Johannesburg, Vilakazi called for an immediate halt to the plan. The NUM has also stated that it will take the matter to court.

This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa approved the Eskom Restructuring Task Team (ERTT) Phase I Report, which proposes creating an Independent Transmission System Operator to increase competition and investment. NUM General Secretary Mpho Phakedi stated that the restructuring of Eskom would lead to significant job losses. He cited historical trends from both global and local contexts, asserting that such changes always result in workforce reductions to maximize profit.

Phakedi warned that any restructuring will inevitably result in workforce reductions, as the private sector prioritizes profit maximization. The NUM is rejecting Eskom's unbundling at a media briefing in Johannesburg today, stressing that the restructuring must not result in job losses, lower working conditions, weakened collective bargaining, or privatization of the public power provider.