BUSINESS NEWS

Absa revolt as staff threaten to join Malema protest: report

By Staff WriterDecember 6, 2015

 

The Sunday Times has reported that Absa CEO, Maria Ramos has met with leaders of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), following threats by the political party to shut the bank down.

The EFF said last week that it has established a ‘special team’ that is working on the occupation of Absa branches across the country.

It said that Absa is specifically targeted because of its historical connection with the Broederbond.

“The occupation of Absa branches will begin in 2016 on a date not to be disclosed. The CIC (Commander in Chief) Julius Malema will personally be leading the occupation,” the EFF said in a statement.

Ramos met with EFF chairman Dali Mpofu, where “they begged him not to go ahead with the march,” The Sunday Times said, citing a senior Absa employee.

It was reported that Mpofu met with a small group of employees who are at the forefront of a revolt at the bank.

The paper, citing one of the leaders of the revolt, reported that more than 2,800 employees have signed a petition to join the march.

The EFF  said it is specifically targeting white monopoly capital institutions that have enjoyed protection of government. “When people are marching against white monopoly capital, government has always demonstrated its willingness to use violence to defend their interests,” it said.

“The EFF with the occupation of Absa branches is taking the fight to white capital. It is a struggle that is unstoppable. The EFF will not rest until the inequality gap is closed and wealth is shared among the people of this country.”

It said  that many other institutions will be identified for occupation following the the occupation of Absa.

The full article can be found in the December 6, 2015 edition of the Sunday Times.