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COSATU Dutywa Local and the entire Eastern Cape has learned with great shock and a deep sense of sadness, the tragic passing of Comrade Bantwini Mbane, who was a SACCAWU Butterworth/Dutywa Local Chairperson at the time of his death.

He was involved in a car accident on his way from work, travelling home. He was a diligent worker whose ability to strike a balance between work and trade union activities was incredible.

At the time of his demise, he was the longest serving Local Chairperson of SACCAWU in the Eastern Cape. During his tenure as a Shop Steward at the then Weir’s Cash & Carry, he was a National Chairperson of Weir’s Stores until the take-over of the stores by Shoprite.

He was a humble leader committed to the cause of the workers as his immediate constituency and the working class in general, a tough negotiator and a trustworthy leader. In COSATU he was a pillar of strength that always expressed his unwavering support to the Federation’s programmes through his words and actions. His ability to blend theory and practice in the theatre of struggle was impressive. COSATU Dutywa Local has lost a dependable leader in him.

COSATU Dutywa Local expresses its sincere heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences to his family, relatives, friends, colleagues and comrades during this tough and trying moment occasioned by the sad loss of this true leader.

Further details will be communicated in due course.

Issued by COSATU Eastern Cape