SAFTU faces financial turmoil as unpaid salaries threaten its future
Unpaid salaries at SAFTU expose a financial crisis that jeopardises the livelihoods of its members and the future of South Africa's largest independent labour federation.
The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) is grappling with a severe financial crisis, as unpaid salaries and a mounting debt threaten its future. General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi and other key members of the federation s secretariat have gone without pay after the organization exhausted its funds. SAFTU warns that the situation poses an existential threat, not only to the federation but also to the workers it represents and broader communities facing poverty and unemployment.
The financial woes stem from the South African Revenue Service's (SARS) 10-day deadline for settling a debt, further straining SAFTU's finances. Vavi stresses that the crisis extends beyond unpaid salaries, impacting members' ability to carry out their programmes, organise campaigns, support worker struggles, and foster working-class unity.
Despite the personal financial strain, Vavi urges the crisis be viewed through the lens of all workers who face similar financial commitments. Unions have stepped up by paying subscription fees ahead, preventing SAFTU's collapse. However, SAFTU cautions that the burden cannot be shouldered by a few affiliates, viewing the crisis as a threat to the federation's very existence.
A Special National Executive Committee meeting is set for September 10, 2026, to confront the financial crisis and devise measures to restore SAFTU's sustainability. The federation remains committed to defending its programme, rebuilding financial foundations, and supporting South Africa's working class, despite the formidable challenges it faces.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
