The South African Federation of Trade Unions (SAFTU) hereby withdraws the condolence statement issued earlier today regarding the reported passing of veteran actor and trade union pioneer, Mabutho “Kid” Sithole.
Following the circulation of widespread reports on social media, SAFTU, like many South Africans, accepted the information as genuine and issued a statement expressing our condolences. We have since spoken directly to Comrade Kid Sithole and are relieved to confirm that the reports of his passing are false.
We sincerely apologise to Comrade Kid Sithole, his family, friends, colleagues and the broader artistic community for the distress and confusion caused by the circulation of this fake news and by our reliance on those reports.
This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the irresponsible use of social media. While social media has transformed the speed with which information is shared, it has also become a vehicle for the rapid spread of misinformation and fake news that can inflict profound emotional distress on individuals and their families, damage reputations and mislead the public.
SAFTU is immensely relieved that Comrade Kid Sithole is alive and wishes him good health, continued strength and many more years of contributing to South Africa’s arts, culture and the struggle for the rights of creative workers.
We also urge all media organisations, public figures and members of the public to verify information before sharing it, particularly reports concerning the death or wellbeing of individuals.
We wish Comrade Kid Sithole a long life and look forward to his continued contribution to our country.
Issued on behalf of the SAFTU General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi.
For media inquiries, contact the National Spokesperson at Newton Masuku newtonm@saftu.org.za 0661682157
