No drugs, no booze, no singing, no weapons
ANY major political gathering has its house rules and Cosatu’s is no exception, with general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi laying down the law yesterday and warning delegates at the trade union federation’s congress against the use of drugs, drinking of alcohol and singing of divisive songs in relation to the ANC’s Mangaung conference in December.
This might explain why things went so smoothly, despite a few delays, with the top six leadership being nominated unopposed without any drama.
The congress also banned the showing of signs that “prematurely open debate” on the December conference.
At the start of the federation’s 11th national congress, Vavi took it upon himself to remind the 2 934 delegates about the list of “congress house rules”.
He said all delegates should be punctual and disciplined, and that it was the responsibility of the affiliate unions to ensure that members complied.
“Tribal songs and war songs that are not related to our movement are not allowed,” Vavi added.
Other rules included no firearms or traditional weapons being allowed into the congress venue as well as delegates being banned from displaying any posters, wearing T-shirts or circulation of material in support of any candidate in the Cosatu election.
Singing in praise of any serving leader of the alliance, however, was not divisive.
“But, singing against any leader of the alliance is divisive and will not be allowed. No alcohol or drugs shall be allowed in the congress hall, and no smoking of illegal substances for the duration of the congress will be tolerated,” said Vavi.
This led to one delegate saying the “no drugs” rule was a little too broad and should state there should be no use of “recreational drugs”.