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The boss of South Africa’s largest labour union federation vowed Friday to challenge his suspension from office over a sex scandal, claiming a “smear campaign” against him.
COSATU general secretary Zwelinzima Vavi told reporters he has instructed his lawyers to “challenge the decision” to put him on leave “pending investigation and possible disciplinary action.”
The outspoken unionist was suspended on Wednesday, after admitting to having sex with a junior employee in his office.
The 26-year-old woman initially claimed Vavi had raped her but later retracted her claim.
COSATU is an ally of the ruling African National Congress (ANC) and a valuable source of votes.
Vavi implied there was a dark plot against him by enemies bent on reducing the powerful labour federation’s influence.
Vavi has led the two-million-member federation for 14 years, but has come under fire recently for his open criticism of President Jacob Zuma.
He accused the president of COSATU, Sdumo Dlamini, of circulating an intelligence report to “smear and destroy” him and other top politicians.
“I believe a grave injustice is being visited on me,” he said to loud cheers from a group of sympathisers.
The tensions around Vavi’s leadership threaten to divide the federation, as he enjoys strong support from its largest member, the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA).