Backtrack: Tito says he'll stay on as finance minister beyond May

LONDON — Trade union movement, Cosatu has never been a fan of Finance Minister Tito Mboweni. When he set his sights on the position in 2014, powerful allies on the left flank of the ANC prevented him being considered. His name was withdrawn from the ANC ‘s 2014 Parliamentary list after it was made clear to Mboweni that he would not be considered for the position as Finance Minister. With a new President in Tuinhuys, Mboweni did become Finance Minister and the battle between him and Cosatu was reignited. Cosatu has openly condemned some of Mboweni’s statements on e-tolls, South African Airways and state owned enterprises. When he told investors that South African Airways was worthless junk, Cosatu issued a statement describing him “a raving street corner derelict…a potty mouth without any impulse controls…someone, who is looking for easy applause and nods of approval from his neoliberal overlords.” They also called on the ANC to reign in Mboweni. The latest salvo from Cosatu is that Mboweni who has previously stated that people should retire at 55, should “practice what he preaches” and go. But Mboweni is unlikely to heed their advice. In his budget speech in February Mboweni promised that he will be around for a while if the ANC wins the election. - Linda van Tilburg