Re: [Marxism] Cosatu statement on SADC/Zim

[Walter Lippmann <walterlx@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

QUESTIONS BASED ON THIS:
http://lists.econ.utah.edu/pipermail/marxism/2007-August/016730.html

Hi, Norm -

Most interesting document. Thanks for sharing it.

Not trying to open the familiar debate on the ANC government
this time, I would like to ask Norm to discuss his thinking
about the political meaning of the fact that COSATU, which
belongs to this same government, remains in it despite such
actions at those it protests here.

My impression is that, regardless of their differences over
Zimbabwe, and other matters, like police brutality, etc.,
COSATU's differences aren't considered significant enough
for them to leave the South African government. Now as far
as I'm aware, South Africa is the only country on earth in
which trade unions are currently members of the government
Explicitly as representatives of the labor movement.

What is the political significance of union membership in
the government, and why, in your estimation, are issues
like police brutality and Zimbabwe NOT splitting issues
for COSATU?

Thanks,


Walter Lippmann
Los Angeles, California


================================
WALTER LIPPMANN
Editor-in-Chief, CubaNews
writer - photographer - activist
http://www.walterlippmann.com
================================

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