In a briefing on Tuesday in Johannesburg, SAFTU articulated its concerns, stating that the bill's passage could jeopardize the livelihoods of numerous South African workers.

The contentious amendments to the Labour Relations Act (LRA), which received approval from social partners at the National Economic Development and Labour Council (Nedlac), are intended to alter organizational operations fundamentally.

However, SAFTU warns that the enactment of section 77 could undermine the right to strike and eliminate formal hearings for dismissals at the employer's discretion.

SAFTU's General Secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi, expressed the federation's readiness to protest if their objections are disregarded. Vavi highlighted the bill's potential impact on young workers, who could face dismissal without due process during their initial employment period.

He criticised the proposed amendments for attempting to negate a significant legal victory obtained through the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa's (Numsa) constitutional court application.

Vavi's stance is clear: the amendments would allow employers to dismiss workers unilaterally, without the need for an independent hearing or Chairperson, a move SAFTU considers a direct threat to workers' rights and justice.

--ChannelAfrica--