Phakamile Hlubi Majola left Numsa after death threats

Threats turned lethal on paper, forcing a union heavyweight out fast and exposing how dangerous labor politics can get.

Spokesperson exits under threat

• The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa lost its national spokesperson abruptly.
• Phakamile Hlubi-Majola stepped away after repeated death warnings.
• Messages claimed hired killers were tracking her movements.
• Fear for personal safety drove the immediate decision.

Timeline of intimidation

• Phakamile Hlubi-Majola received an anonymous WhatsApp warning in Cape Town.
• The message detailed surveillance and a plan to kill her.
• Travel plans changed instantly to return to Johannesburg.
• Resignation followed the next morning.

Internal fallout inside NUMSA

• Leadership confirmed multiple members faced similar threats.
• An internal memo flagged a broader intimidation pattern.
• Early silence aimed to protect targeted individuals.
• Public disclosure followed after the information leaked.

Union leadership response

• Irvin Jim signed the official condemnation statement.
• NUMSA pledged to hunt down whoever issued the threats.
• Authorities were flagged for urgent involvement.

Hlubi-Majola’s role and legacy

• Phakamile Hlubi-Majola served as NUMSA’s public-facing voice.
• Her work shaped messaging during strikes and negotiations.
• Journalism training sharpened complex labor arguments.
• Advocacy pushed gender equality inside metal industries.

What comes next

• NUMSA plans to replace the spokesperson role quickly.
• Investigations into the threats remain active.
• Hlubi-Majola intends to continue activism outside the union.
• Safety fears now loom larger for labor leaders.