COSATU disappointed with ANC for allowing corruption-accused Kodwa to be sworn in as MP

CAPE TOWN - Trade union federation COSATU says it's deeply disappointed that the African National Congress (ANC) has gone ahead with Zizi Kodwa's swearing-in as an MP.

The union said the ANC had chosen to "recklessly ignore" its own step-aside resolution by going ahead with Kodwa's swearing-in.

Kodwa was sworn in on Tuesday, along with 58 MK Party MPs, despite calls for him to relinquish his seat while he faces corruption charges.

Kodwa on Tuesday defended his swearing-in, saying he was deployed by the ANC before referring questions to the party.

"As for the issues you are raising, I think the organisation can explain. I'm not here to speak on behalf of the organisation. I can't speak on behalf of the caucus. I'm here as a member as instructed in terms of being number 25."

But COSATU spokesperson Matthew Parks said in a statement that Kodwa's swearing-in was a "poorly thought through and ill-considered decision" by the ANC.

He said it undermined the party's progressive step-aside resolution.

Parks said while they did not celebrate Kodwa's legal woes, he said it was also not befitting to have members of Parliament going in and out of court to face corruption allegations.