JOHANNESBURG - During the inaugural Elijah Barayi memorial lecture at the University of Johannesburg's Soweto Campus, President Cyril Ramaphosa reflected on the profound influence of unionists and anti-apartheid leaders such as Elijah Barayi on South Africa's constitution and its labor laws. The event, held on Wednesday, commemorated Barayi's contributions as a trade union leader and a pivotal figure in the anti-apartheid struggle.

According to South African Government News Agency, Barayi's legacy is evident in the progressive labor and social protection laws enshrined in the nation's constitution, including the right to strike and collective bargaining. Barayi, who was among the founders of the National Union of Mineworkers and the first President of the Congress of South African Trade Unions at its inception in 1985, played a critical role in these advancements. Ramaphosa emphasized that such rights, which were fiercely advocated for by Barayi and his contemporaries, must be protected against any attempts to dilute them.

The President also spoke on the challenges and changes facing the labor market due to technological advances and globalization. He stressed the importance of adapting labor laws and strengthening trade unions to protect these hard-won rights and to ensure that the labor market remains inclusive and resilient against such shifts.

Ramaphosa concluded by calling for a renewal of commitment to social justice and equality, in line with Barayi's legacy, to address the ongoing economic disparities in South Africa. He highlighted the need for continued efforts to improve the lives of all South Africans, honoring the memory of leaders like Barayi by pushing forward policies that promote fairness and dignity across the society.