Sadtu Counters Julius Malema in Election Staff Dispute for Upcoming Polls.

The South African Democratic Teachers' Union (Sadtu) and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema are engaged in a heated dispute over the appointment of election staff next year, prompting a back-and-forth exchange.

Sadtu is demanding an apology from Malema for alleging that Sadtu members would manipulate the elections in favor of the ruling African National Congress (ANC). This controversy arises as the Electoral Commission of SA (IEC) often employs school facilities and public spaces as polling venues, appointing school personnel, including Sadtu affiliates, to temporary roles during elections.

Malema, rallying EFF members to ensure party representation at every voting station nationwide, voiced concerns about Sadtu members' potential involvement due to their affiliation with Cosatu, which declared support for the ANC.

The exchange intensified at the Ground Forces Forum, where Malema's remarks linking Sadtu to ANC support drew condemnation. Sadtu deemed Malema's comments as displaying ignorance of constitutional rights and responsibilities, citing concerns about hate speech and disruption of the IEC's efforts to conduct fair elections.

In response, Sadtu criticized Malema's apparent ignorance and the EFF's recent expulsion of members. Expressing concerns about workers' rights under an EFF-led government, Sadtu accused the party of disregarding fundamental democratic principles.

The union clarified the distinction between trade unions and political parties, emphasizing that while political party leaders in senior positions are restricted from election roles, trade union members are eligible if meeting criteria.

Asserting members' rights to serve as election officers and promote fair elections, Sadtu called upon its affiliates to participate actively while warning against any unlawful intimidation of its members.

The standoff reflects a clash over principles of democracy and underscores Sadtu's determination to protect its members' rights amid the escalating tensions with the EFF.

source: IOL