Death threats against NUM leader spark concern amid organisational rights dispute at Impala
NUM says threats against its branch chairperson undermine workers' constitutional rights as police continue investigating the case
The National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) has condemned alleged death threats against its Branch Chairperson at Impala MMM 1 Shaft, describing the incident as a serious attack on workers’ constitutional right to freely choose their trade union.
According to NUM, the threats come amid an ongoing dispute over organisational rights at the mine, where the union is pursuing lawful recognition in terms of the Labour Relations Act. The union said intimidation and violence have no place in democratic labour relations and that representation disputes should be resolved through collective bargaining, conciliation, arbitration and the courts.
NUM also praised the South African Police Service (SAPS) for its swift response after the matter was reported. The union said three suspects were arrested on 6 June 2026 at Impala No. 8 Shaft near the mine clinic. According to NUM, the suspects allegedly had been stalking the Branch Chairperson and were found in possession of two unlicensed firearms and a stolen vehicle.
“Of serious concern to NUM is the noticeable and significant presence of alleged AMCU members and supporters during both bail hearings. While NUM fully respects the constitutional principle of open court proceedings, the repeated, high-volume attendance by alleged AMCU members raises serious questions regarding their interest in a matter involving individuals accused of threatening the life of a NUM leader. We urge law enforcement agencies to investigate all possible angles surrounding this matter to establish the full truth,” said NUM.
It is reported suspects have since appeared before the Tlhabane Magistrate’s Court on two occasions, where bail was successfully opposed. A third bail application is scheduled to be heard this week.
The union further expressed concern over the presence of individuals it alleges are members and supporters of the Association of Mineworkers and Construction Union (AMCU) during the bail hearings. NUM has called on law enforcement authorities to investigate all aspects of the case. At the time of publication, AMCU had not publicly responded to the allegations.
NUM said it remains committed to securing organisational rights at Impala MMM 1 Shaft and called on all stakeholders to promote peaceful coexistence, respect workers’ freedom of association and reject violence and intimidation in the workplace.
In other news, to commemorate Mandela Day on July 18, NUM said together with the National Women Structure and its entities, will host a community outreach programme at Itireleng Disability Community Centre in Mohlakeng (Randfontein) Westrand. The centre is the home to community members living with disability.
