Johannesburg – The only union authorised to operate at Gold One Mine has announced that it has ended its exclusive access, paving the way for other unions to register.
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) late on Tuesday announced that it had “consciously and deliberately taken a decision to terminate the close-shop agreement at Modder East Gold One Mine in Springs”.
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The NUM said it has taken “a responsible decision or position to safeguard the jobs and save the lives of innocent workers”.
The union added: “There is a legitimate concern that if the violent acts continue, some of our members or innocent workers are going to get killed.
“On Sunday night, the car belonging to a former NUM shop steward Comrade Prince Radebe was burnt.
“There were three other occupants in the car who escaped and ran for their lives.
“Members who are not in support of the protest are intimidated and threatened on a daily basis.”
During the hostage situation two weeks ago, nine NUM members were assaulted underground and one member ended up in ICU.
“The NUM as a responsible union has taken a decision to de-escalate the current violent situation,” the union said.
“It is evident that the protesters are not willing to follow any legal process and are continuing with the criminal acts to exert pressure on the company.”
NUM said it was still opposing the urgent court application filed by AMCU.
“We are resolute that the petition that they are using as a base for their application is highly questionable and remains to be verified considering the voracity under which the petition was obtained,” explained NUM.
The union said the petition was not verified and validated by a reputable organisation such as the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation, and Arbitration (CCMA).
The NUM said it wants the petition to be verified and validated by the CCMA.
“However, we remain firm in taking the decision to terminate the closed shop agreement as it has become evident that these protestors will never abide by the decision of the court,” said NUM.
