Siyabonga Sithole|Published
ANC Deputy President Paul Mashatile has made a vigorous return to public duties following a period of ill health, engaging actively with residents in Ward 45 of the City of Ekurhuleni on Wednesday.
His resumption of duties signals an intent to strengthen community ties and galvanise support ahead of the upcoming local government elections.
During his visit to Vosloorus, Mashatile was welcomed by both the Gauteng Provincial and Ekurhuleni Regional leadership, who briefed him on ongoing local initiatives.
Dressed in the party’s trademark colours, Mashatile, along with Education MEC Panyaza Lesufi, embarked on the party’s much-anticipated door-to-door campaign. Their primary focus was to discuss the municipal indigent programme, aimed at helping qualifying households manage the rising costs of basic services.
While addressing a group of ANC members, Mashatile expressed his satisfaction with the preparations for the forthcoming local government elections.
"I am happy to report that the party has been well received by residents. Some of these homes have had issues with electricity, which have now been resolved. Some elderly residents require assistance, but they are recipients of pensions," he added.
Mashatile further reflected on the warm reception in Vosloorus, saying residents remain positive about voting for the ANC.
The movement must honour that confidence by responding to the issues raised and improving service delivery, he said.
Mashatile's visit follows an address he made earlier in the day at the eighth national congress of the Federation of Unions of South Africa (FEDUSA).
In his speech, he delivered a stark warning about the ramifications of global geopolitical tensions and shifting trade policies on South Africa’s economic stability.
He pointed specifically to a severe financial crisis at the International Labour Organisation (ILO), which is exacerbating challenges in export markets and industrial competitiveness.
On a more optimistic note, Mashatile discussed the implications of artificial intelligence (AI) as a double-edged sword for organised labour.
He articulated that this technological evolution presents both significant challenges and opportunities.
"Those who anticipate change and prepare workers with the necessary skills, protections, and voice required in the digital economy will shape the future."
He urged trade unions to lead the digital transition, advocating an aggressive approach to bargaining over workplace technology, data management, and workforce reskilling, particularly for informal and digital platform workers.
Last week, Mashatile's return to public life culminated in a remarkable day as he delivered a keynote address at the sixth Limpopo Investment Conference, where he also officiated the launch of the InvestSA One Stop Shop in the province.
This event exemplifies his busy schedule and commitment to revitalising investment in the region, marking a pivotal moment in his agenda since undergoing two months of sick leave.