Dear President, National Office Bearers, Leadership and Members of COSATU,

The Cry of the Xcluded extends its deepest revolutionary greetings and heartfelt congratulations to COSATU on the momentous occasion of its 40th anniversary. This milestone is not only a celebration for COSATU, but for the entire working class of South Africa. It marks four decades of struggle, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the vision of a just, democratic, and equal society.

Since its founding in 1985, COSATU has stood as a pillar of working-class power, defending the rights, dignity, and livelihoods of millions of workers. It has shaped the political landscape of our country, challenged exploitation in all its forms, and provided a home for the aspirations of the poor, the marginalised, and the excluded. Its legacy is written in the victories won on factory floors, farms, mines, communities, and in the national policy arena, where workers’ voices have been amplified through organised, democratic, and militant unity.

Today, as our country faces deepening inequality, mass unemployment, austerity, collapsing public services, and the growing burden of the cost-of-living crisis, the relevance of COSATU’s struggle remains as urgent as it was 40 years ago. The Cry of the Xcluded stands firmly with COSATU in confronting these crises. We remain committed to building working-class unity across employed and unemployed sectors, urban and rural communities, youth and women, and all who refuse to accept the theft of our future through neoliberalism and austerity.

We appreciate COSATU’s continued support for grassroots struggles and its openness to building broad alliances that centre the lived experiences of workers and the poor. We particularly note and honour your recent role in opening the pre-launch of the Fieldmore Mapeto Engagement School, a gesture that strengthened the spirit of unity and reaffirmed the importance of political education in shaping the future of our movement.

As you celebrate 40 years of struggle, may this anniversary renew COSATU’s commitment to a transformative path that places social justice, economic democracy, and people-centred development at the heart of our national agenda. The Cry of the Xcluded looks forward to deepening our collaboration in the fight against austerity, strengthening grassroots organising, and building a society where no person is excluded, silenced, or left behind.

In solidarity, we say: Aluta Continua! The Struggle Continues!

Cry of the Xcluded
2025