A call for structure and clarity was brought to the fore during recent discussions around the CSA constitution and the formation of a negotiation task team.

The Limpopo Province (NT) raised important questions regarding whether the Negotiation Task Team and the Constitutional Committee had officially been formed. Their concern centered around the union's ability to respond effectively to internal challenges.

The CSA President responded by stating that such committees would be formed as necessary, and that regions are encouraged to raise any issues via the General Secretary's office. "We must remain relevant and fix only what is broken."

Congress Delegates, National Office Bearers, and other attendees were warmly welcomed to the 11th Triannual National Congress. Reference was made to the previous congress held under COVID-19 restrictions in February 2021. Special thanks were extended to NOB and REC members who remained committed throughout their terms. The President expressed deep gratitude with the words, “Ngiyabonga Maqabane!”

Welcomed National Office Bearers and Regional Delegates in terms of clause 15 of the CSA Constitution. Commended South Africans for participating in the recent national elections. Shared mixed feelings about CSA’s progress but expressed cautiously optimistic hope. Voiced strong criticism against the employer's harsh treatment of members and failure to ensure fair working conditions.

This Special NEC Meeting of the Commission Staff Association has been convened under extraordinary circumstances, as allowed by the union’s constitution. The CSA is navigating an unprecedented moment marked by mass resignations, including the General Secretary stepping down from his role — though he remains a loyal member and comrade whose contributions are deeply appreciated. While the organization has faced challenges before, none have been on this scale.

This National Executive Committee meeting takes place under unusual and challenging circumstances — the first of its kind under the current leadership. Although this moment is unique, it is not the first time the CSA has been tested. Each challenge in our history has strengthened us, and we remain confident that we will emerge from this period united, principled, and focused on our core values. If someone had told me at the May 2024 NEC that our union would face such a significant departure of members, I would never have believed it. Yet here we are — standing firm. I extend my sincere gratitude to the NOBs, the regional executive committees, and the broader membership who remained committed and did not lose faith during this period. Your loyalty and resilience show the true character of this movement.

The previous NEC minutes were reviewed, corrected, and formally adopted, with Cynthia Dlamini moving and Malathisi Qamngana seconding. Delegates raised key matters: Tshwane emphasized not negotiating within employer-set timelines to maintain union credibility, Vaal sought clarity on certificate costs and DEL feedback, and Mpumalanga expressed concerns about limited information sharing when only the regional chair attends. On the 2022–2023 performance-based incentive bonus negotiations, the union position was confirmed as 6.4% (5), 7.5% (4), and 8.5% (3), moved by Tshwane and seconded by Vaal. Day 2 (14 October 2022) saw the General Secretariat report on NOB vacancies (previously held by Vusi Lawu, Darren Colby, and Regan Jacobs), the status of the CSA Union, and the need to uphold professional conduct aligned with organisational responsibilities.