Publications
Partners
Cape Town - Members of the National Education, Health and Allied Workers' Union (Nehawu) plan not to perform voluntary services at the State of the Nation event in parliament on Thursday, but this is certainly not a sign of an alliance with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Luphando Nogcinisa, the union's provincial secretary in the Western Cape, told Fin24 on Wednesday.
He emphasised that Nehawu is not trying to make a political statement and has nothing to do with the EFF, which has indicated that it intends to ask President Jacob Zuma questions during his State of the Nation address.
READ: Alec Hogg: An hour (and a half) with Jacob Zuma
"In fact, we are in alliance with Cosatu and, therefore, with the ANC, so this must not be construed as some kind of alliance with the EFF," said Nogcinisa.
He categorically denied that Nehawu or its members are planning to disrupt the State of the Nation address.
"The only thing Nehawu members plan to do, is to raise their frustrations about the way previous negotiations with parliament were concluded."
READ: Treasury ignoring talks, claims Nehawu
The way these frustrations will be demonstrated during the State of the Nation event will manifest in Nehawu members, who normally render voluntary services during the event, will withdraw.
"So, we are not calling for a strike. These members doing voluntary services, like ushering in guests, will simply not do it. They will, however, work their normal day or night shifts," explained Nogcinisa.
He said he is not aware of parliament making alternative arrangements for volunteer services. Nehawu is, however, still trying to find an amicable solution with the management.
ALSO READ: Eskom: Lights on for the State of the Nation address
