JOHANNESBURG - Congress of the South African Trade Union (Cosatu) General Secretary Zwelinzima Vavi on Wednesday said the trade union federation was not split or paralysed and leaders knew better than to fight silly battles instead of dealing with worker issues.

Cosatu's central executive committee held a meeting and briefed the media on the outcomes.

It emerged late on Tuesday that despite what appears to be a fierce leadership battle, Vavi managed to fend off a challenge against him.

This relates to allegations of corruption against him which he vehemently denied, challenging anyone with information to come forward.

Some have accused Vavi of selling the old Cosatu House building in Braamfontein for R10 million, far less than its market value.

They also accuse him of awarding a contract to a company that allegedly employs his daughter.

Vavi said the federation remained united.

“The executive committee resolved to fight even harder than ever before for the workers. We have to show them that we are not splitting or paralysed as the media and their sources would want us to believe.”

He downplayed the challenge against him.

“Cosatu leadership is acutely aware of the dangers of fighting silly small battles against one another when workers continue to fight massive economic challenges.”

The meeting resolved that allegations against Vavi will continue to be investigated.