Former Congress of SA Trade Unions (Cosatu) general secretary, Zwelinzima Vavi, emphasised that thousands of workers in the metal industry were in critical danger of losing their jobs as a result of corruption.

“We want an end [to] corruption because we see a very direct relationship between corruption and the state of our economy that results in us losing our jobs… 50 000 workers in the steel sector will lose their jobs. More than 190 000 workers will lose out on a job because of this crisis unless we stand up and mobilise,” Vavi told marchers.

Vavi, Numsa general secretary, Irvin Jim, and Congress of the People leader, Mosiuoa Lekota, were all present, with around 200 Cope members and marchers from civil society groups bolstering the thousands strong march.

Singing songs in Zulu

Prior to the march leaving Mary Fitzgerald Square in the Johannesburg CBD, Numsa leaders continuously blasted Cosatu president, Sdumo Dlamini, and SACP general secretary, Blade Nzimande, in their many Zulu songs, claiming the two leaders had a “sickness” that needed to be cured.

Other controversial songs included the infamous Dubuli’ bulu (Shoot the white man), which landed Economic Freedom Fighters leader Julius Malema in hot water.

In his speech to the thousands gathered for the march, Vavi slammed President Jacob Zuma’s relationship with Gupta family, saying they continuously buy helicopters and are afforded special treatment as they are allowed to land on the rooftops of their homes.

“[They are] making life impossible and unbearable for everybody in their neighbourhood. We have had enough,” he said.

The march was expected to pass by Beyers Naude Square, located next to the Gauteng provincial legislature, before proceeding to the Chamber of Mines where a memorandum would be handed over.