AS workers around the world prepare to mark Labour Day, better known as Workers' Day in Mzansi, unions have expressed mixed feelings about the celebration.
Some argue that Workers' Day should not be celebrated given the challenges faced by workers in the country, including high unemployment rates.
However, others believe it's important to celebrate the day, not just to voice complaints about government shortcomings but also to recognise the progress made in the labor sector.
The General Industries Workers Union of South Africa (GIWUSA) told Daily Sun that Workers' Day should always be observed in Mzansi.
According to the union, it's not about celebration but a strike by the working class against the government's treatment. The union emphasised that workers will not be gathering to celebrate but to voice their ongoing struggles without solutions in sight.
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GIWUSA president Mametlwe Sebei Workers' Day as a day of struggle.
"This is a worldwide general strike of workers for basic conditions of decent employment and a better life for all working-class people. It's not about celebration; it's about the disappointment of the past 30 years," he said.
Sebei highlighted the need for Workers' Day to intensify the strike to address the issues faced by workers in every region, including unemployment, poverty, and low wages.
"Seventy-five percent of workers earn below R6 000, which is an indictment of the ANC government," he said.
Mpho Phakedi, deputy general secretary of the National Union for Metalworkers (NUM), believes Workers' Day should be celebrated.
He views the day as a campaign to reflect on both the gains and challenges faced by workers.
"Celebrating Workers' Day allows workers to share their challenges and express gratitude for their employment," he said.
Phakedi pointed out that the existence of a minimum wage, despite its inadequacy, is an achievement worth celebrating.
He acknowledged the ongoing struggle for better conditions, emphasising that the fight for improved wages and working conditions continues.
