Phillip Vilakazi Elected as New President of National Union of Mineworkers at 18th National Elective Congress

Phillip Vilakazi has been elected as the new President of the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM), replacing Dan Balepile, at the union's 18th National Elective Congress held in Boksburg. The event, which took place from 24 to 26 June 2025 at the Birchwood Hotel and Conference Centre, marked a turning point for the NUM as Vilakazi won with 411 votes against Balepile's 331. This leadership shift comes at a crucial time for the union, which represents workers in South Africa's mining, energy, construction, and metal sectors.

- By Thabo Mosia

New Leadership Takes Charge

The 18th National Elective Congress brought together 747 delegates from 11 regions across South Africa to choose the union's leadership for the next three years. Alongside Vilakazi's election, a new team of National Office Bearers was announced:

President: Phillip Vilakazi

Deputy President: Olihile Kgware

General Secretary: Mpho Phakedi

Deputy General Secretary: Phillip Mankge

Treasurer General: Hellen Diatile

Additional key positions filled include:

Chairperson Education: Muzikayise Zakwe

Chairperson Health and Safety: Duncan Luvuno

Secretary OHS: Masibulele Naki

Secretary Education: Lefty Mashego

The election process was a display of democracy within the NUM, with delegates voicing their trust in Vilakazi. One delegate expressed optimism, saying, “We are very happy from this state. We are very happy and we know exactly we trust him. The churches are the objectives of the emblem will be there and be performed. So no, he just said like corruption, that's what I noted. No more corruption. So government now we need stability in NUM. It's not going to be like before. You needs for our members because from different regions hopefully this today.” This reflects the hope that Vilakazi will bring stability and a renewed focus on fighting corruption and serving members.

Vilakazi's Call for Unity and Service