Cosatu backs artists in their outcry on FIFA action

By Ofentse Mokae
28 March 2010

The Congress of SA Trade Unions has also came out in support to local artist on their displeasure to soccer authorities after they were over looked to feature in a 2010 World Cup concert.

The union federation says in a statement it is supportive of the campaign by local artists to benefit from the Fifa World Cup in South Africa.

However, spokesperson Patrick Craven pointed out that the Creative Workers Union of South Africa its affiliate, had the right to be angry after artists around the continent had been overlooked by both the Local Organising Committee and Fifa for the soccer spectacle's pre-concert at Orlando Stadium in Soweto on June 10.

Craven says it is a scandal that the World Cup concert will only feature three local artists and more than nine from elsewhere.

“The federation urges all its members to support CWUSA’s rolling mass action at the 2010 World Cup Local Organizing Committee’s offices in Nasrec to protest against this plan,” said Cosatu.

Cosatu says they share the views of the creative workers that the tournament is an African World Cup and it’s for Africa making them part and parcel in displaying the rich heritage of the country and continent through their involvement and participation.