Magashule allegedly calls for Zuma’s May Day hecklers to be fired

Free State Premier Ace Magashule has allegedly called on heads of departments to identify and fire all employees who rejected President Jacob Zuma on May Day in Bloemfontein.

The WhatsApp message claims Magashule called for those who prevented the president from addressing the crowd to be fired, with part of the message reading: “Remember, Magashule is also on record on national and international TV channels saying they have taken their own video footage and are going to study it,” Daily Sun has reported.

The message also alleged that even those who took part in the anti-Zuma march were also on the firing line, further telling the employees not to be scared by the threats, as there were courts and structures meant to defend workers.

Cosatu provincial secretary Monyatso oa Mahlatsi reportedly confirmed to the tabloid that the federation was aware of the message that had been circulating among public servants and that his federation had confronted Magashule’s office about it.

The Free State South African Communist Party (SACP) reportedly told the tabloid it was aware of the message and was investigating the accusations.

Magashule’s office reportedly denied giving such an instruction.

Cosatu had to cancel its rally on Monday after members refused to let the president speak, calling for him to step down. Following the chaos, Magashule said the disruptions were planned to embarrass the president, though he said the most vocal people were not from the province.

“I know this was a national event, but I’m just saying people in this province are quite disciplined. This is an embarrassment, but we have fought for this freedom. We have fought for the workers’ rights,” he was quoted as saying.

Read more:

//