Unions blockade Swaziland

Issue 

Unions blockade Swaziland

By Norm Dixon

Thousands of trade unionists in South Africa, Swaziland and Mozambique prevented trucks entering or leaving Swaziland on March 3, in solidarity with the Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions, which has been on strike since February 3 demanding free political activity and democracy.

Workers on both sides of the South Africa-Swaziland border picketed border posts. Members of unions affiliated with the Congress of South African Trade Unions in the clothing and textile, food, retail and transport sectors refused to handle goods destined for or originating from Swaziland.

One or two trucks, out of a normal day's traffic of 75, succeeded in breaking the line with police assistance, only to be stranded on the other side by picketing Swaziland unionists.

Mario Masuku, president of the outlawed People's United Democratic Movement, said the blockade showed that workers have the power to bring the economy to a halt and that progressive forces in Swaziland enjoyed regional and international solidarity.

On March 2, 4000 workers at an SFTU rally voted to suspend the indefinite strike. The SFTU will now hold general strikes on the first two days of every month until the monarchy agrees to the workers' demands.

If you like our work, become a supporter

Green Left is a vital social-change project and aims to make all content available online, without paywalls. With no corporate sponsors or advertising, we rely on support and donations from readers like you.

For just $5 per month get the Green Left digital edition in your inbox each week. For $10 per month get the above and the print edition delivered to your door. You can also add a donation to your support by choosing the solidarity option of $20 per month.

Freecall now on 1800 634 206 or follow the support link below to make a secure supporter payment or donation online.