Numsa Celebrates as Pravin Gordhan Announces Retirement Amidst Criticism of SOE Management

In a candid expression of relief, the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (Numsa) has welcomed the impending retirement of South Africa’s Public Enterprises Minister, Pravin Gordhan, with open arms. The union has been sharply critical of Gordhan's tenure, especially his alleged mismanagement of state-owned enterprises (SOEs).

Numsa, a key player in the South African labor sector, expressed a near-celebratory tone in response to Gordhan's retirement plans, which were publicized last Friday. The minister is set to leave office following the nation’s general elections next year, on the 29th of May 2024.

Phakamile Hlubi-Majola, the spokesperson for Numsa, remarked on the minister's service record with vivid language, asserting that his influence on the SOEs has been disastrous: "Just like the hit song by Miley Cyrus, Gordhan came in like a wrecking ball in 2018, and he has wrecked every single state-owned entity that he touched."

The criticism didn't end with colorful metaphors. Numsa accused Gordhan's leadership of causing significant decline in the operational stability of these public entities. According to Hlubi-Majola, many SOEs are either struggling severely or have ceased to operate, severely impacting the workers whose livelihoods depend on them.

Numsa’s dissatisfaction with the minister's performance extends to the controversial sale of South African Airways (SAA), wherein Gordhan is alleged to have sold the airline for less than its worth, precluding workers from investing and becoming shareholders. Hlubi-Majola emphasized the union’s stance, stating that Gordhan should be held accountable for the injustices inflicted on the working class under his watch.

The tension between Numsa and Minister Gordhan undeniably reflects deeper issues within South Africa's management of its state enterprises and the repercussions for its labor force. The stance of the union is unambiguous: they're not just looking to see Gordhan's departure but are also calling for justice.

Moreover, the union's comments underscore a broader dialogue about the health of South Africa's public sector and the ramifications of its governance on employment and the economy. Furthermore, Numsa's bold willingness to volunteer to help Gordhan pack his bags highlights the lust for change and hope for a future where SOEs are an asset to the country and its people, rather than a liability.