NUM's Vilakazi takes on boss Balepile

Number one and two face-off for right to lead union

- By Mpho Sibanyoni

National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) president Dan Balepile is waging a battle against his deputy, who wants to unseat him from the top position.

The battle comes as the mine and construction workers union prepares to head into a national conference scheduled for June 24 to June 26 when Balepile is expected to face off against his deputy, Phillip Vilakazi.

Sunday World understands that the position of deputy president will also be contested, while the general secretary and treasury positions will not. The posts are held by Mpho Phakedi and Helen Diatile, respectively.

In a video published on the union's Facebook page on June 13, when Vilakazi was speaking at a Free State region health and safety workshop, he confirms he will contest Balepile.

"I read two disturbing messages when I was at a memorial service. The first message says, 'They say you are not available for the position of the president'. I must correct that: I'm available," says Vilakazi to a round of applause.

"When I emerge, as I've emerged already, it's just a matter of confirmation in the ballot box. Clearly, I have no intention to dismiss people in the union.