A well-known union leader in South Africa has stepped down from her job. Phakamile Hlubi-Majola worked as the spokesperson for NUMSA. She left because people threatened to kill her. This is not the first time she received such warnings. The news has shocked many workers and leaders across the country.
What Happened
Hlubi-Majola resigned on January 28, 2026. She sent a letter to the union’s general secretary, Irvin Jim. In this letter, she explained why she had to leave. The decision was not easy for her. But her safety came first.
On Saturday, she was traveling to Cape Town. Someone called her with a scary message. The caller said that people were sent to assassinate her. They knew where she was at all times. They were watching her movements. This made her very afraid.
This was the third death threat she received. Each time, the threats became more serious. She realized she could not ignore them anymore. Her family’s safety was also at risk.
Why She Left
Hlubi-Majola joined NUMSA in 2019. She became famous for speaking up for workers’ rights. She helped with wage talks and labor disputes. Many people respected her work. She was once a reporter for eNCA before joining the union.
NUMSA is planning its National Congress later this year. The union has about 300,000 members. Hlubi-Majola feared that tensions would grow during this time. She thought the security risks would get worse. She did not want to put herself in danger. She also did not want her family to suffer.
In her letter, she made something clear. She said political fights should never lead to violence. People should solve their problems through simple discussions. They should not use fear to win arguments. This is important for South Africa’s future.
The Bigger Picture
Death threats against union leaders are a serious problem. They show that violence is being used to silence people. This is not right. Workers need leaders who can speak freely. They need people who can fight for better wages and working conditions.
The threats make it hard for unions to do their work. Officials may resign if they feel unsafe. This weakens the union’s ability to help workers. Criminals and violent people then win. This is bad for everyone.
Public Reaction
Many people have commented on social media. Some praised Hlubi-Majola for putting her life first. They said her decision was brave. Your safety should always come before your job.
Others are worried about what this means for NUMSA. They fear more officials will leave if they receive threats. They want better security for union leaders. They want the government to take action.
Some people said the threats are real and serious. Even business people face kidnapping risks. Families are warned not to talk about how they make money. This shows how dangerous South Africa has become in some areas.
What NUMSA Does
NUMSA is one of South Africa’s biggest unions. It represents metal workers across the country. The union has been very active in fighting for workers’ rights. It has spoken out against government policies. It has taken legal action against Eskom over power cuts.
The union has always been outspoken. This has made some people angry. But it has also helped many workers get better pay and conditions. The process is simple. Workers bring their problems to the union. The union then fights for their rights. Hlubi-Majola was a key part of this work. Her voice will be missed.
Moving Forward
Hlubi-Majola’s resignation is a wake-up call. South Africa needs to protect people who speak the truth. Leaders should be able to do their jobs without fear. Political differences should be settled in easy and peaceful ways.
The country must draw a firm line. Violence cannot be used to settle disputes. This applies to unions, political parties, and all organizations. Everyone deserves to feel safe. The solution is simple. People must respect each other. They must use words instead of threats.
For now, Hlubi-Majola has made her choice. She chose life over work. She chose her family’s safety over her career. Many people understand and support her decision. They hope she stays safe.
NUMSA will need to find a new spokesperson. The union faces challenges ahead. But the most important lesson is easy to understand. No job is worth losing your life. No cause is worth putting your family in danger. Safety must always come first.
