Hannah Omarjee | homarjee@radioislm.co.za
10 May 2023 | 15:00 CAT
2 min read

Photo Credit: Sowetan Live

The National Union of Metal Workers of South Africa (NUMSA) has expelled the president of SAFTU, Ruth Ntlokotse. NUMSA accused Ntlokotse of misconduct, claiming that she was spreading lies after she was suspended.

Radio Islam International spoke to Ntlokotse to get her side of the story.

“It’s an unfortunate situation that all these things happened, is happening during the month of May, which is the month of workers.”

According to Ntlokotse, another broadcaster suggested that both parties be interviewed, but NUMSA declined. In response, NUMSA issued a statement accusing Ntlokotse of spreading lies.

“My expulsion from NUMSA has nothing to do with the allegations that are levelled against me. I am expelled because I challenged the members in court.”

Despite her expulsion from NUMSA, Ntlokotse remains the current president of SAFTU until further notice. She has seven days to appeal the expulsion and plans to challenge it ‘head on’. Ntlokotse stated that she is prepared to defend herself in court without the assistance of a lawyer, as she has evidence to prove her innocence. NUMSA may sue her, but she is confident in her defence.

Should the case go to court, it could reveal the long-standing corruption and poor management within NUMSA. Ntlokotse alleges that NUMSA is attempting to silence individuals who hold opposing views, particularly those who want to hold the organisation accountable. Ntlokotse believes this is what prompted her expulsion.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Junaid Kharsany here