29/10/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: 29 October 2026
ISSUED BY: Public and Allied Workers Union of South Africa (PAWUSA)
PAWUSA Condemns Unethical Poaching Tactics and Reaffirms Full Operational Status in the Western Cape
WESTERN CAPE — The leadership of the Public and Allied Workers Union of South Africa (PAWUSA) has noted with deep concern the malicious and flagrant lies currently being spread by rival trade unions, specifically the Public Servants Association (PSA), in the Western Cape.
Reports from our shop stewards and members confirm that representatives from these organizations are falsely claiming that PAWUSA is no longer operational or in existence. The latest incident occurred at Hillcrest Primary School, Wellington, where sadly an employee of one of our social partners were also misguided into spreading lies about the union.
PAWUSA unequivocally rejects these desperate and unethical recruitment tactics.
We wish to assure all our members across the Western Cape and South Africa that PAWUSA is fully operational, financially sound, and actively servicing its membership. Our organizational structures are fully functional, and our leadership remains steadfast in representing workers' rights at every bargaining table and in every workplace.
Statement from General Secretary Selwyn Alexander:
"This deliberate attack on PAWUSA will not be taken lightly by our leadership. As General Secretary, the National leadership remains committed to ensuring that every single PAWUSA member—far and wide—receives the highest standard of service and protection in their respective workplaces.
PAWUSA carries a rich, historic legacy in the labor movement of South Africa.
We will not allow opportunistic unions to undermine our contributions or deceive workers for cheap membership gains. We remain undeterred, steadfast, and completely focused on our constitutional mandate."
Call to Action: Defending The Union
PAWUSA views these deceitful tactics not only as an attack on our organization, but as a cruel and manipulative exploitation of public sector workers. We urge all PAWUSA members and shop stewards to stay vigilant:
Report Falsehoods: Any member who encounters individuals from the PSA or other unions spreading these falsehoods across the Western Cape is urged to step forward and identify them to PAWUSA leadership immediately.
Leadership Accountability: PAWUSA will escalate every identified incident directly to the national leadership of the offending unions to hold them accountable for these unfair labour practices.
PAWUSA remains unwavering in its mission to protect workers' rights, improve workplace conditions, and uphold its proud legacy within South Africa’s labour framework.
Our doors are open, our representatives are active, and your union is stronger than ever.
– ENDS –
Media Contacts & Inquiries:
Office of the General Secretary
Public and Elected Workers Union of South Africa (PAWUSA)
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (021) 424 2055
Issued by: GS Selwyn Alexander
