NUMSA extends condolence to Comrade Paul “Bazooka” Mbhele

Press Release

The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) wishes to extend its deepest condolences to the family of Comrade Paul “Bazooka” Mbhele. Mbhele was the Deputy General Secretary of South African Public Service Union (SAPSU), which is also an affiliate of the New Federation. Mbhele was a militant, committed and dedicated Comrade of the Workers struggle. As a member of the steering committee he was intimately involved in setting up the structure for a truly independent, democratic and socialist Workers union in the public sector.

Comrade “Bazooka” as he was affectionately known, was a staunch defender of Workers rights. He was an active member of SADTU (South African Democratic Teachers Union) as its East Rand regional secretary until 2013 when he was expelled from the trade union for refusing to compromise his principles.

Comrade Bazooka leaves us at a time when we are all busy galvanising workers towards the launch of the independent, New Federation. We had hoped so much hope that Comrade Bazooka would play a critical role in ensuring that all workers in South Africa are united under this new federation, but unfortunately it was not to be.

The details of the memorial service are as follows:

Date                            : 17 April, 2017

Time                           : 11:00-15:00

Venue                                    : East Rand School of the Arts (Daveyton)

The funeral details are as follows:

Date                            : 19 April

Time                           : 08:00 – 11:00

Venue                                    : Roman Catholic Church, Crystal Park