Rasool move 'will help ANC'

2008-07-23 20:12

Cape Town - The African National Congress's decision to replace Western Cape premier Ebrahim Rasool is an important step in getting the party back on track, said the Congress of SA Trade Unions (Cosatu) on Wednesday.

Rasool's resignation and replacement with finance and tourism MEC Lynne Brown, with effect from Friday, was announced by ANC national chairperson Baleka Mbete earlier on Wednesday.

Cosatu said the divisions in the Western Cape were unfortunate and had paralysed the ANC and the government in service delivery, and for this the leadership had to be held to account.

"We believe the ANC is bigger than any individual and workers will support the ANC, irrespective of who the premier and leader are, as is the role of every committed comrade.

"The most-important issue is to develop a team spirit that unites our people around the programme of the ANC to win the election and use the government to speed up delivery."

Cosatu also thanked Rasool for his services to the province's people during his term of office.

His contribution to the clothing sector, especially, and the steps to assist the revival of the industry, would be remembered. These had contributed to job creation in this sector.

"We also remember his role in the United Democratic Front and liberation struggle where he distinguished himself as a committed son of the soil."

Rasool should be redeployed elsewhere in the government and not "just discarded", as he had many talents and experiences, said Cosatu.

- SAPA