S1 Ep11: Workers Day Special: A Trip Down May Day Memory Lane

A “nation engaging in dialogue”. That’s how government is describing next month’s National Dialogue. But, as we hear in this episode, it will be a sanitised, stage-managed talk-shop which will cost R700-million, only to benefit monopoly capital. Host: Tebadi Mmotla Guest: Ighsaan Schroeder

Six labour broker workers from Simunye Workers Forum took the liquor giant Heineken to labour court – and won. Gladys Thaane, one of the workers, shares how she stayed motivated throughout their seven-year struggle. Host: Tebadi Mmotla Guests: Gladys Thaane & Sam Tilley

Permanent jobs are vanishing, replaced by a precarious workforce. Casual workers hired through labour brokers face job insecurity and exploitation, with weak rights. Buwa Basebetsi sat with some who shared their stories. Host: Tebadi Mmotla Guests: Lefa Hadebe; Solomon Moloi & Jacob Potlaki

There has been a groundswell of opposition to the proposed labour law amendments. Many workers’ organisations believe they will make it easier for bosses to fire workers. But, Labour deputy director-general, Thembinkosi Mkalipi, tells us these controversial amendments are necessary, and beneficial for all. Host: Tebadi Mmotla Guests: John Appolis,…

Fifty years ago a young guerrilla went underground after helping to rob a bank in California. He stayed on the run for 27 years, including spending a significant time in South Africa, training local workers. Here’s his fascinating story. Host: Tebadi Mmotla Guest: James Kilgore