Samwu mourns death of second union leader

Samwu in King Sabata Dalindyebo municipality is mourning the death of another union leader.

The union’s regional deputy chair, Amos Mbotoli, died on Monday. He had 25 years experience at KSD.

Just days earlier, shop steward Andile Mkosi succumbed to

Covid-19 after being admitted to the Mthatha General Hospital on Saturday.

Samwu chair Lwazi Madyibi was numb with shock at the sudden passing of two of its “tried and tested” leaders. Both had stood unflinchingly against injustices within the municipality, he said.

“They withstood vicious attacks, sometimes from within our own ranks. They remained committed to the union, even at the worst of times, until the end.”

They were both shop stewards. Mkosi served in public safety and Mbotoli was in infrastructure.

“He [Mbotoli] served the union in different capacities from local to provincial level. He has served as branch chair, regional gender co-ordinator and provincial gender committee member.”

Madyibi said all Samwu KSD members could attest to the commitment displayed by the two leaders in the fight for better working conditions.

“We are deeply hurt by the loss and send our heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, colleagues and comrades in the union.”

KSD municipal spokesperson Sonwabo Mampoza said management had conveyed condolences to the Mbotoli family.

He described Mbotoli as a responsible employee who, despite his union activities, still found time to do his work with aplomb. Mbotoli had earned the respect of everyone in KSD due to his work ethic.

“The family’s loss is also our loss. He was mature during negotiations with management,” Mampoza said.