Zwelinzima Vavi
Zwelinzima Vavi is a prominent South African trade union leader and former General Secretary of the Congress of South African Trade Unions (COSATU). Known for his outspoken views on workers' rights and social justice, Vavi has been an influential figure in South Africa's labor movement since the end of apartheid. He has also been a vocal critic of government policies and has played a significant role in various political movements, advocating for the rights of the working class. Recently, he expressed support for Ebrahim Rasool, calling for a hero's welcome upon Rasool's return to South Africa after being expelled by the Trump administration.
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Recent news mentions
Zwelinzima Vavi warned that the greatest betrayal of democratic South Africa has been the normalization of mass unemployment.
The NDR Is Not Dead — But It Must Be Rescued from Slogans
South Africa· 2026-07-14
Zwelinzima Vavi described President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to return Dina Pule to Cabinet as 'disgusting'.
Outrage over Pule appointmentSouth Africa· 2026-07-03
Zwelinzima Vavi, the Saftu general-secretary, said the news of THL’s rescue augured well for the rural economy and the small-scale growers.
Withdrawal of Tongaat Hulett liquidation signals renewed confidence in the sugar sector, say ANC and SaftuSouth Africa· 2026-06-23
Zwelinzima Vavi, a union leader, called on people to attend the welcome event for Ambassador Rasool.
South African diplomat, expelled by Trump, to receive hero’s welcome at home
Canada· 2025-03-22
