4 June 2012
The South African Communist Party (SACP) in the Eastern Cape Province notes and welcomes the investment in Emalahleni region through Elitheni Coal Operations. This is a much needed investment that will help in job creation.
We believe that people of Emalahleni should not only benefit through employment in this Elitheni Coal Operations but must get a fair share in the ownership of the mine. They must get beneficiation through a direct ownership in the mine. This mineral resource belongs to the people of Emalahleni so they deserve a fair share as the freedom charter stipulates. This project cannot be turned into something that will benefit elite on the expense of the people. This is their right not a privilege; people can`t be made serfs in their own resource.
The people of Emalahleni can`t be directed to God for help and be told to put their trust in him whilst their mineral resource which rightfully belongs to them is taken away. We support the call by the community to get more than three percent share, three percent does not even get close to fair share. People must benefit through ownership in this venture. The community is indeed correct to say "nothing for us without us".
We are calling upon the provincial government to assist the people of Emalahleni get what is due to them. The ANC alliance led government must intervene in this matter decisively if we are to change property relations in this land and change the livelihoods of the workers and the poor of this province. This is the people`s government; it must therefore intervene on behalf of the people.
The SACP commits itself in the struggle for achievement of the above, with and for the workers and the poor.
Issued by the SACP Eastern Cape:
For more information contact:
Siyabonga Mdodi
SACP Provincial Spokesperson - 083 3588 070