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Voice of the Labour Movement Established 1988 Issue No: 204 MAY, 2013 Regi ster ed at the GPO as a News paper

y Young Workers ZIMTA Soccer gate policy charges hike rules workshop president relaxed held calls it

Page 3 a dayPage 8 Page 16 Nothing to celebrate ...... as workers wallow in poverty, says Nkiwane imbabwean workers living. failing to pay workers on time have nothing to celebrate He lamented the poor while service providers like Zduring this year's May working conditions workers are Zimbabwe Electricity Distribution Day celebrations as they subjected to and, he said, this has Company and local authorities are continue to wallow in poverty led to most workers deciding to failing to provide services. despite the so-called economic join politics. Electricity load shedding and growth. "Most workers have now water rationing are the order of the The president of Zimbabwe's resorting to joining politics day in all towns and transport to biggest trade union federation, the because that is where everything is and from work is a nightmare. Zimbabwe Congress of Trade done. They are now joining Workers had pinned their Unions (ZCTU), George Nkiwane, politics in order to reshape the hopes on the government of told The Worker that what workers future," he said. national unity but from 2009 at its have hoped for during the whole Meanwhile, the ZCTU lined inception it has failed to deliver and year had not materialized. up commemorations in several make the necessary reforms. "Nothing has changed since towns across the country under the Retrenchments have rendered last year, there have been no salary theme "Workers Under Siege: thousands of workers redundant increments for the past two or so Organise, Unite and Fight On". depleting the power of the working years for most workers. Most The working environment in class. collective agreements have ended Zimbabwe has been compromised The main event is in Harare at up in courts and at arbitration. for a long period and workers Gwanzura stadium where the guest Workers have now become the rights have been sacrificed. Labour speaker will be the Prime Minister working poor. There is nothing to laws are the least observed in of Zimbabwe, Morgan Tsvangirai, celebrate," said Nkiwane. virtually all sectors. The new crop himself a former Secretary- Collective bargaining has of investors especially the Chinese General of the ZCTU. The Minister virtually been stalled with most do not observe labour laws and the of labour, Paurina Mpariwa will sectors having concluded authorities that be are not keen to also be the guest of honour. negotiations two years back. prosecute them because of their However, in the spirit of Currently employers are offering political links. oneness, political parties like Zanu inflation adjusted increments Workers are being brutalised PF, MDC-T, MDC-N, Mavambo while unions are demanding living by Chinese employers especially and Zapu were also invited. wages at par with the Poverty in the construction sector. This Other centres were Datum Line which is now around laxity to the Chinese is commemorations are to take place $600.00 a month. Most workers contributing to the disturbing rise include Masvingo (Mucheke are earning salaries ranging from in workplace injuries and fatalities. $90.00 per month to $300.00 The mainstream economy is which is a pittance given the cost of on its knees with most companies To page 3 GEORGE NKIWANE Page 2 The Worker, MAY 2013 Unemployment hits Mutare as companies collapse

which had since forced the in such a scenario,'' he said. company to operate far below The ZCTU Eastern Regional capacity. Officer reiterated that several Karina Textiles Private industries in the Region were on Limited was also not spared by the hard times and the workers were country's economic meltdown bearing the brunt of the crises. He and the once gigantic sole wool stated that it was imperative for manufacturer terminated the government to treat the operations in October last year phenomenon as a matter of leaving over 300 workers in abject urgency. poverty. ''You see, industry in this The company and workers region has been reeling from a have been embroiled in a labour myriad of viability challenges. wrangle after management Mutare industry is timber and applied for liquidation without agro-based but the processing any consultation whilst the factories in these sectors has workers had preferred judicial either been scaling down or management to resuscitate the terminating operations. So factory. The case is still pending at pathetic is the situation that even the High Court. giant companies such as Border Mutare Cairns Foods, a Timbers International as well as former leading processor of fruit Allied Timbers are failing to and vegetable products including break even whilst exposing baked beans, jam as well as workers on the hardest of times,'' tomato sauce drastically scaled he said. down operations and recently Early this year the Minister of placed its factory under judicial State in the President's Office, Jobless youths spend most of their time doing nothing and end up engaging in nefarious activities management after laying off more Didymus Mutasa in conjunction than 500 workers. It has been with the Manicaland Business confirmed that the factory is Action Group (MBAG) toured BY STAFF REPORTER in labour wrangles at the courts workers at its peak, succumbed to currently operating below 10% the distressed industries in the where they are demanding their viability challenges and closed capacity and only re- Region. MBAG advisor, Bezel dues. engaged 60 workers in its Nyabadza called for maximum ndustries in Mutare, shop in November 2009. ''There is no industry to talk production. The factory is a intervention by both the which formerly Efforts to revive the giant about here. We witnessed a typical industry whose targeted government and the private sector contributed significantly manufacturing paper plant were I massive decline during this failed and its machinery was domestic market was stifled by to revive Mutare industries to the country's economy, now country's decade long economic cheap food imports flooding the describing the situation as dire. resembles ghost settlements as disposed whilst the offices have meltdown. The sad part of the market. There have also been calls most factories halted been turned into a private primary whole crisis is that it is the Quest Motors Corporation, from various stake holders in the operations leaving thousands of school. workers who are at the receiving one of the renowned car region which suggested that workers in the eastern border The gigantic workshops at the end. Cases of unfair termination assemblers in Zimbabwe for over companies extracting diamonds at town desperate for site were converted into backyard of contracts, retrenchments as 6 decades, has also been bleeding the vast Chiadzwa site in the employment. garages whilst some structures well as non payment of terminal in its operations. province should prioritise A recent survey conducted by have since been refurbished into benefits had been on the rise,'' he The company's director Tarik resuscitating the plummeting this reporter revealed that restaurants and some other small said. Adam stated that they were forced Mutare Industry as a matter of inactivity has characterised scale businesses. It has since been established to operate at less than 5% capacity urgency. former renowned business The former largest fusalite that numerous challenges due to the stiff challenges in the The crises has left many entities and the remaining safety glass manufacturers, P.G including lack of capital automobile industry. Mutareans in a desperate companies were operating far Safety Glass disengaged over 200 injection, high production costs '' The economic climate we are predicament and many workers below capacity in the former workers including managerial and stiff competition by cheap operating under is never have turned to informal work timber dominant industry. staff through compulsory foreign products mainly imports sustainable. It is apparent that new which has witnessed an influx of The ZCTU Eastern Regional retrenchment in 2010 after from China and South Africa - out cars are coming across the border vendors around the city where Officer, Tenson Muchefa noted halting production and sold the played several local economic from South Africa and flooding they are daily involved in a cat and that the demise of the industry in factory to Afri-Safety Glass (Pvt) players out of business have the market. These cars are being mouse chase with both the the province had posed a Ltd in March last year. affected business. subsidised by their government municipality and the ZR Police. desperate situation for most The new glass producers only Mutare Board and Paper Mills and with our current economic workers since they were rendered re-engaged 50 employees and (MBPM), which used to produce experiences, it's a daunting jobless further revealing that most have been struggling citing 1500 tonnes of newsprint hostile economic environment ambition to put up a competition of the employees were embroiled monthly and employed over 6000 2013 MAY, The Worker Page 3 Young Workers congress imminent All is set for the inaugural young workers congress if the Zimbabwe Congresss of Trade Union's (ZCTU) supreme body the general council adopts the constitutional ammendments that will recognise the Young Workers as a bonafide structure of the labour body. The constitutional ammendments were proposed at a Young Workers policy development and constitutional ammendments which was held in Masvingo last month. The structure is set to be adopted in the same manner in which the ZCTU Women Advisory Council (WAC) was incorporated. Addressing the workshop, ZCTU first deputy general secretary Gideon Shoko said it was high time the young workers were recognised in the labour movement. He said the young workers are the future of trade unions hence they need to be groomed. "Discussions to lure the involvement of young workers in the trade union started long back after realisation that the trade unions were lacking the involvement of two important components which are women and the young workers. We then formed a women's structure and are now on the road to have the working young on board. This a good way of grooming them in preparation Participants at the Young Workers workshop closely following proceedings for leadership renewal. Unions cannot die after the retirement of older workers because the young are shunning them. You form the done well so far in spearheadng Meanwhile there is serious jostling crew wants to serve a term and then bulk of the workforce hence we cannot awarenes campaigns in outlining the for positions come congress and the "senior relinquish power as age would be against afford not to have you involved in trade rationale behind the importance of the boys and girls" are already strategically their side. unions ," he said. young in working policies but the real positioning themselves to shut out the According to the policy one is Shoko urged the young workers to be challenges will come once the 'mafikizolos' from running away with the eligible for election as long he or she is 35 responsible and to participate in all social constitutional ammendments are adopted. 'struggle'. Chances are high that the senior years and below. processes that have a bearing on their future "The structure will be established at and interests. district, regional and national levels while "We are going to have elections in all unions will also be compelled to the near future so you must vote for your establish the structures. It will be the duty interests," he said adding that the young of the elected executives to ensure that is ZIMBABWE TOBACCO INDUSTRIAL WORKERS UNION workers should strive to be the vanguard of done and it takes a lot of dedication. the trade unions. However some unions have already ZCTU national organiser Michael established the structures and that is Kandukutu who is coordinating the Young commendable," he said. Workers said the involvement of the youths Participants at the workshop said in the unions was a key driving force to they were ready to take up their role as the policy guidelines for the young workers was vanguard of the trade union. Serious key to development. efforts to organise young workers started "The ZCTU at its 7th national in 2008 with the formation of the interim congress adopted a resolution to establish national executive structure. It has come this structure. The constitutional up with frameworks that will guide the ammendments and the policy will address Young Workers on the basis of equity and some of the chalenges blocking the young diversity,gender equality and equity and from joining trade unions. We have made empowerment among others. some strides towards addressing that and The Young workers will also be once the ammendments are adopted then we represented in the general council by get to he crux of the matter," he said. their Chairperson, Secretary and a He said the interim executive had Committee member. The Zimbabwe Tobacco Industrial Workers Union join the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions and its affiliates to commemorate Nothing to celebrate International Workers Day on Workers Day under the theme ...... from Page 1 “WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, ORGANISE, Stadium); Beitbridge (Dulibadzimu Stadium); Bulawayo (White City Stadium); Bulawayo Cement Siding (Portland Primary School Grounds); Gwanda (Pelandaba UNITE AND FIGHT ON” Stadium); Hwange (No. 1 Old Grounds); Plumtree (Dingumuzi); Victoria Falls (Chinotimba Stadium); Gweru (Mkoba Stadium); Redcliff (Torwood Hall); Kwe Kwe (Prince Park); Zvishavane (Mandava Stadium); Mutare (Sakubva Stadium); Rusape (Vhengere Grounds); Chinhoyi (Chinhoyi Stadium); Kadoma (Cam & Motor Mine); Kariba(Chaminuka Stadium) and Chegutu (Pfupajena Stadium). In these centres, ZCTU general council members will read the ZCTU president's speech that will reflect on the past and try to chart the way forward for the coming year. Tobacco Power The International Workers' Day commemorated every year on May1. However, it started in Chicago in the late 1880s when the police tried to disperse a public assembly during a general strike for an eight-hour workday when an unidentified person threw a bomb at them. The police reacted by firing on the workers, killing dozens of demonstrators and several of their own officers. In many countries, the working class make May Day an official holiday and their focal point are demonstrations and parades. Shinga Mushandi Shinga, Qina Sisebenzi Qina Page 4 The Worker, MAY 2013 The

Voice of the Labour Movement Comment Yes, let us unite, organize and fight on AY 1 every year is time for workers to reflect on their plight and chart the way forward. As we do so this year, we note with Mconcern that workers in Zimbabwe continue to face a torrid time to survive. In fact since the inception of the Government of National Unity (GNU), there is little to celebrate for workers. Granted, the GNU brought into being some economic stability: Shops are now full of products, inflation is at its lowest, while schools and hospitals are now all operating. But all this did not turn into improved employment. Products are very expensive; the few workers that are still employed are earning wages that are far below the Poverty Datum Line. In fact life is much more harder for those who cannot land the US dollar and poverty is rising among the working people. More workers continue to die at the workplace due to poor safety measures and in farms, the so-called new farmers continue to pay paltry wages and disregard labour laws. Labour laws themselves have not been harmonized as promised by the GNU and there is dilly-dallying in the implementation of the International Labour Organization (ILO) recommendations following its fact finding mission to Zimbabwe that noted that there was a gross violation of workers rights in Zimbabwe. Workers and Zimbabweans in general face serious curtailment of their right to freedom of expression and information. We still have a television and radio stations that church out party propaganda dispite the fact that it is sustained by taxpayers' money. Even the publicly owned newspapers spew venom against those who are opposed to Zanu PF despite the GNU. Of course politicians would like us to believe that they have done much to improve the welfare of workers., especially now that we are going for elections. Let it be known that with the exception of improving the lives of some Ministers, MPs and councilors, there is little to write home about the Zimbabweans, choose leaders wisely GNU. In essence, the GNU has done less than expected to improve the plight manage to do the best. Hordes of of workers. preach highly than anointed popular Whether elections come soon, or political leaders swim in corruption We believe that this year's theme "Workers Under Siege. Organise, later due to various considerable church preachers. Politicians can lie Unite and Fight On" aptly captures the situation in Zimbabwe as regards and eventually fail to honour their and liars can easily win people's the plight of working class. Employees are under siege from all angles: the reasons, Zimbabweans will vote for pledges to voters, and only wake up hearts than truth tellers. government still maintains punitive taxation regime; wages are far below the leaders who will take powerful at campaigning times, to promise That is why many irresponsible PDL; there is poor working conditions in almost all companies; harassment positions which eventually affect lies again! politicians are leaders in different of trade unions and their representatives continue unabated. In fact there is a their lives, locally, nationally and And Zimbabweans have capacities regardless of how bad they serious decent work deficit in this country. internationally. condoned that for too long. Voters But we do not have to fold our arms and expect some miracles. We have to are. They lied and won elections! Whoever wins the coming must come out of a deep slumber and unite and organize ourselves and continue fighting until the final victory. It is What is it that the young and elections for any post will stand in wake up to choose leaders with all only through unity of purpose that we can liberate ourselves. energetic Morgan Richard Tsvangirai power until the next elections – the wisdom elections demand. The GNU has shown us that no government, however good, can fight for successes and failures of an elected has done, that convinces us that he the workers' rights and aspirations. It is only the workers themselves that can We may agree that threats and leader will not change him till voters can lead the nation to its promised liberate themselves. violence contribute to the coming of land? What is it that he has, that we This year's celebrations also happen to be the last one before a new remove him from power in another wrong leaders to power, but we see as potential for the best president government is voted into office. Everyone is unsure what will happen in the election. cannot agree that Zimbabweans Zimbabwe needs? Can Tsvangirai do elections. The future remains uncertain for most workers. In fact, next years' Zimbabweans have complained cannot rise for their needs even in anything new that can move the celebrations might be different in that we might have a new President or we too much for a very long time about face of bullets! NO! Zimbabweans beautiful nation from the old one we are stuck with the current one. The current Minister of Labour might also not failures of leaders they elect can stand up for their choices in face be there and it will be like starting all over again. are all tired of? These are some of the themselves. Of course some say other of blood – let the old murderers On the other hand, and the most likely scenario, we might also still be questions we must ask, when leaders used force to get into power, threaten to destroy lives and still stuck with another moribund GNU if the coming plebiscite does not produce considering him. but a number of people cast votes for stand to vote NO to wrong leaders an outright winner. Workers need to plan the future with those scenarios in well known failed candidates Our old and seemingly tired mind. Let us not be found napping. come elections. regrettable to stand again on same president Mugabe who has led the Happy Workers' Day! If Zimbabweans come out in nation for the past thirty-three years positions they failed in. numbers and vote wisely, they can comes to mind. What has the old man Suppose every voter considers a shame the devils masquerading as done to make Zimbabweans consider candidate unfit for a position and vote promising and tireless leaders by the voting him again as president of our him out at any cost, will we lose our ballot. Let the tired villains shameful wounded nation? Should choices much as we do when we vote through the ballot! Zimbabweans get him closer to forty in fear? Zimbabweans can attend forced years in power? Will he do anything Zimbabweans have succumbed to rallies and related gatherings and to better the messed up Zimbabwe? intimidation, threats and torture for a still vote quality leaders of their Does he still have the potential to long time now – it's high time choice on the election day. Choosing lead the nation from where it is to new Zimbabweans stand up for their leaders must be out of knowledge of look we all desire? Is he not the one nation and choose leaders of their qualities, not out of force! who brought it to this regrettable state choice whether ZANU PF threatens There are simple issues we can we all wish otherwise? war or kills many! look at, to assess a leader – what Can Zimbabweans ask themselves It's high time Zimbabweans qualifies a leader is character, The these questions before they vote, and scrutinize leadership qualities and abilities, potential, and associations consider that other than just choose a leader on merit and not by … Not mere promises! We hear succumbing to fear of history? coercion whether MDC promises ZANU PF history of war and little The same considerations should peace or affluence. about well done work for the nation. apply in choosing other leaders in the The nation has had poor leaders We hear talks of land and coming elections. We must not let due to many reasons we all share the indigenization – Zimbabweans must history repeat itself by voting out of blame for. We have very poor leaders now analyse such talks and fear, favour or oblivion – in MDC the same like in ZANU PF. understand whether why ZANU PF Zimbabweans must make serious Zimbabweans must choose leaders in lays as reasons why voters should considerations in electing leaders this accordance with individual qualities, vote that old party into power is time around. Voting out not party qualities! really worthy or not. irresponsible, unfit leaders from all Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai Is ZANU PF the best party we political parties and voting in and President Robert Mugabe must need because of the land reform, promising giants from any side is best be considered individually, although indigenization, and war experience? for the betterment of Zimbabwe. their party qualities add some credit. Should we vote for President R.G The choices made on elections What the premier has done and Mugabe because of his voice against should not be based on what these what he is able to do if given a chance Whites or all he preaches? politicians promise in their rallies, let is what people must consider. Zimbabweans must ask, and decide! Zimbabweans consider many Zimbabweans must examine a leader MDC-T talks of reforms for the promises that these politicians gave rather than just submitting to one's nation, the need for the restoration of us ago, And choose those who propaganda. law, human rights, employment managed to honour their pledges. President Robert Mugabe must be creation and other promises – Many of our leaders always considered on what he has done, what Should we vote the change-oriented promise big, and do the least of what he can do and not on what he party only because of that? preaches. These politicians can people expect even when they can ...... to Page 15 2013 MAY, THE WORKER PAGE 5 Chikowore calls it a day annual conference. imbabwe Teachers' "I do not want to be the first and She urged women not to Association president last female Zimta president. I want pretend as if they knew everything, ZTendai Chikowore has to see more female presidents after but to seek advice and work closely stepped down from the me. We are in the process of a with other members to achieve the organisation after seeing her term paradigm shift, where there should association's goals. out. be equal representation in the "Do not pretend to know In her farewell remarks at the leadership structures of the everything, but consult and unions national elective conference association. Women should not be prioritise teamwork in everything held last month she urged women cry babies who yell for attention all that you do. In Southern Africa, we in the union to remain strong and the time, but strong cadres of the have powerful women who have fight for leadership posts as well as association who qualify to come up and proved to be good equal representation. represent the association and effect leaders. Chikowore was the first change for the benefit of all I wish Zimta women could do woman to lead the teachers union teachers," said Chikowore. the same by supporting one and was at the helmof the "While I appreciate what another," she said. organisation since 2004. women have done so far for the She thanked the women for the Addressing Zimta women association, there is still a lot more support they gave her during her members from the country's 10 to be done because men are also term of office and reiterated the provinces and members of vying for the leadership posts and need for close co-operation. teachers' unions from different are prepared to close space and During her term as Zimta president African countries, during a caucus make sure that women only hold Chikowore also led negotiations meeting she urged women not to lower posts. for civil servants leading the Apex be cry babies, but to remain Equal representation is a C o u n c i l . focused and fight for leadership process, not an event. I therefore Richard Gudane the former posts in the association. want every woman to be part of the secretary general was voted The caucus meeting was held process as we try to promote gender unopposed to take over. before the official opening of the equality in the association's three-day Zimta 32nd national structures." TENDAI CHIKOWORE

Farai Katsande to lead banking union Congratulations to workers on he Zimbabwe Banks and Allied Workers' Union (ZBAWU) held its 8th National Congress in Masvingo where Farai Katsande, from IDBZ, May Day 2013! Twas elected president to lead the union for the next three years. The congress, that was held under the theme "Geared to Face It" , also saw Verity Mutsamwira, from Stanbic, were voted the first vice-president, while Not just recovery, but a JUST Recovery for Zimbabwe Afreginati Goto , from POSB and Jonathan Kambewu from CBZ, being Civil society working in key areas of economic and social justice have gathered concerns and elected to the positions of 2nd and 3rd vice presidents respectively. aspirations of community members across the country over the past decade. The country and the Paul Mutsatsa from Banc became the union Treasurer-General with Grace people need economic and social ‘recovery’. However people don’t want just any recovery, but a Mapfunde and Fortune Jegede grabbing the positions of WAC chairpserson recovery that improves the economic opportunities and well being of the people as a whole. A and secretary respectively. JUST recovery provides fair conditions and social justice, fair benefits and economic justice and The congress came up with a number of resolutions, but the major ones being fair governance and tax justice. the need to come up with a three months insurance fund to assist dismissed members pursuing their cases . The union is also to establish a 24-hour legal department to be manned by qualified and experenced lawyers as well as Fair conditions and social justice represent workers in all legal matters, including criminal ones. ZBAWU also agreed to a 50-50 representation between men and women in The inclusion of the right to health services, health determinants and education in the bill of all decision making bodies. rights in the draft constitution is welcomed. This needs to be translated to reality. For example, The congress was graced by the ZCTU president, George Nkiwane every household and public space should have safe water and sanitation. Potable water should be publicly provided, with a minimum free band to cover basic health needs. Staple foods should be affordable and available. People should be entitled to the same good quality of health and education services wherever they live and whatever their income level. Everybody should have access to decent housing. There should be a national policy consultative dialogue on ZCATWU launches bulk how to improve the coverage and performance of social security schemes. sms facility for members Fair benefits and economic justice There have been a number of signs of ‘recovery’ in the past few years, but how widely has the CATWU has launched a Bulk Mugabe added that the sms facility was recovery been felt? A recovery strategy that is based on wider access to production resources and sms facility for its membership well received by the membership. "Since incomes would not only be more just, but also more sustainable. Hence for example, small scale as an additional we launched the facility we have been food producers should get subsidies on seed and fertiliser to boost production, and the GMB Z should make immediate payment when farmers deliver the crops they sell. People should be paid communication tool to its broad getting feedback from our membership membership across the country. and the responses have been very positive. a living wage. The highest to lowest pay gap should be reduced and a greater share of profits Speaking to The Worker, the union's We actually realized that we should have should be invested in new production and jobs. Communities and workers should have fair benefit from the resources in their area, including a stake in the companies extracting natural deputy general secretary Fozert Mugabe done this a long time. We are getting resources likeminerals. said the bulk sms facility was a faster and overwhelming feedback from members efficient way of relaying messages to the across the country. We are also getting membership spread across the country. complaints and grievances as from the Fair government and tax justice She said the union was exploring all feedback that we are getting. It has created Economic and social justice calls for people’s full participation in democratic, accountable and means to effectively communicate with a platform whereby members can interact participatory forms of governance. Local government is key for participatory democracy. There its membership and the sms facility was with membership," she said. should be a consultative review of all local government laws to ensure that they provide for the latest in addition to The Constructor The union is in the process of updating effective citizen participation. Local governments need to get reasonable levels of government newsletter and union campaign the bulk sms database and is calling for revenue and to use the funds to provide quality, reliable and affordable services. Residents expect programmes. members to submit their phone numbers to receive good services including timely and accurate bills. "The facility is a faster, efficient and through the various union offices. Local government should invest in public infrastructure and explore viable options for affordable cost effective way of relaying messages "We started with a small number but renewable energy sources. At local level, residents, stakeholders and experts should be included to our members. There are issues that members have expressed interest in the in local and central budgeting processes. Companies should publish what they pay, including need to be communicated to our facility so we are now in the process of their remittances to and from government. Central and local government and parastatals should membership as quickly as possible so adding more members to the data base. We provide timely annual external audits toparliament and to the public. Corruption should be the facility is ideal for that. Our will continue to accommodate all exposed at all levels and those involved should account for their actions. organizers will then follow up and give interested workers in the industry on this finer details if need be but we would platform which has proved to be a useful have delivered the information recruitment tool as some non members are Community Working Group on Health, Zimbabwe Teachers Association, FOSENET; Zimbabwe timeously," she said. joining the union after getting wind of the Project Trust; Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions; Combined Harare Residents Association; bulk sms news," said Mugabe. She said Civic Forum on Housing,TARSC the union also intends to open a website. Page 6 The Worker, MAY 2013

UNION NEWS IN BRIEF Workers Day a time Hwange suspends 520 WANGE Colliery Company Limited (HCCL) last month suspended 520 workers who protested over Hsalary disputes and alleged breach of the company's code of conduct. for reflection The workers went on strike over outstanding employee share option schemes which the coal mining giant is delaying to Change (MDC) by the labour movement after it had honour despite earlier acknowledgment. s the workers of Zimbabwe are The mine employees claimed that they have not been issued commemorating the International Labour paraded its potential. with their share certificates for shares options they exercised in Day popularly known as Workers Day That repression coupled with employer A intolerance is good enough reason for every working 2007. They are accusing the mine's major shareholder Nick van locally it is time to reflect on the gains achieved so far in post independence. person to reflect on the day. Workers now have Hoogstraten for allegedly blocking the scheme. Zimbabwean workers have always celebrated the greater reason to demand more and address Hwange introduced a share option scheme in 2005 for a day with zeal with bumper crowds witnessed in the anomalies on this day. period of 10 years to 2014, but in 2007 van Hoogstraten blocked years soon after independence. What drew crowds Globally this is an annual public holiday that the scheme after workers had already exercised their rights on the back then was that the state President, Robert Mugabe celebrates the eight-hour working day, a victory for options that year. took the opportunity to announce the minimum wage. workers in the mid-late 19th century. The argument To compound the matter, the workers say they have not been Being the time when technology was not the in thing for the eight-hour day was based on the need for each able to exercise their options since 2008 because of the dispute like nowadays every worker wanted to hear it from person to have eight hours labour , eight hours and some employees have passed on, leaving beneficiaries with the horse’s mouth hence the day was mortified. recreation and eight hours rest. no compensation. In the early 19th century, most labourers worked Another factor which led to the resounding The workers said some workers have since died without worker participation in commemorating the day was 10- 12-hour days for six days each week. The 1850s brought a strong push for better conditions. A benefiting from the scheme saying the employer was prejudicing the unity and understanding which prevailed between them since some of the employees did not have beneficiaries who the government and the trade union. The cordial significant part of the push began in 1855 in Sydney. On 21 April 1856, in Melbourne, the stonemasons could benefit so the profits would remain with the company. relationship which fizzled out in the late 1980s after They also accused management of failing to pay them salaries falling out on policy direction marked the division of workers staged a well-organised protest. They for two months. workers with government implementing the policy of downed tools and walked to Parliament House with multiple unions in one industry. This was strategy to other members of the building trade. Their fight was dilute the strength of workers by dividing them along for an eight-hour day, effectively a 48-hour week to New minimums for agric sector unions. That power of numbers became reduced replace the 60-hour week. The government agreed to marginally as the ZCTU remained the leading labour an eight-hour day for workers employed on public works, with no loss of pay. he General Agricultural and Plantation Workers' Union of body commanding the bulk of workers. However Zimbabwe (GAPWUZ) has described the new sector after the liberalisation of the economy and dropping The win was a world first but did not end all labour problems. Many working conditions were Tminimums announced last month as paltry and falling short of the minimum wage a certain percentage of workers harsh and demanding, and women were paid a lot less of basic needs. lost interest in the commemorations. The minimum wage for farm workers has been increased from The liberalisation of the economy also led to the than men. But the victory for the eight-hour day was US$59 to US$65, with the highest paid worker now earning US$130. liberalisation of the labour market. This development The new wages were gazetted last month under Statutory Instrument 41 significant and several hundred building workers was followed by the adoption of the Economic of 2013. marched in a parade in May 1856 to celebrate their Structural Adjustment Programme (ESAP) which Gapwuz acting general secretary Gift Muti said the wages were still win. was strongly resisted and criticized by ZCTU. ESAP low. resulted in the implementation of policies that Tinsmiths, bootmakers, tailors, metal workers "The wages are very low for farm workers. The money can only stimulated massive retrenchments thereby further and stonemasons were amongst many of workers' provide food, but what about shelter and clothing? With the cost of living weakening the labour turf. More workers had no groups that protested and fought for better working as it is in this country, the wages are very low," he said. reason to attend Workers Day commemorations after conditions across the country. Over the next two The wages are still far below the poverty datum line which is estimated at being made redundant decades, one by one, the states brought in the eight- almost US$600. A lot has transpired from the 1990s until now hour-day although the working week was still The development came after an agreement signed last week between which distressed workers but which also however officially six days until 1948 when it was changed to the General Agricultural and Plantation Workers' Union of Zimbabwe reinforced the workers’ resolve to commemorate the five days. International Workers' Day traces its (Gapwuz) and farmer organisations. day. international routes back to the 1886 Haymarket The employer organisations that agreed to the new wages are the The state launched an onslaught to silence affair in Chicago, USA. The universal significance is Zimbabwe Commercial Farmers Union, Zimbabwe Farmers Union, workers and trade unionists from social participation that, across the world, the eight-hour day is Commercial Farmers Union, Zimbabwe Tobacco Assocation and the using all sorts of tactics from intimidation to naked considered the fairest working hours in a day for Zimbabwe Agricultural Employers Organisation. brutality. The state represssion was moved a gear up people in any industry. Another Statutory Instrument in the same Government Gazette after the formation of the Movement for Democratic indicated that workers in the kapenta industry would now earn a minimum wage of US$120, while the highest paid worker would get US$240. EMCOZ endorses Convention 187 ratification Security guards strike looms

BY CHRISTOPHER MAHOVE Concern had been raised among the the shop-floor. So we wonder what ECURITY Guards are set to embark on industrial action business community that additional costs the employers are soon over salaries after employers only agreed to award After more than a year of ratification of the convention afraid of. Zimbabwe is ahead of them a paltry three percent increment in the just ended deliberations, the Employers' S would bleed them of the scarce many African countries, in fact, we Confederation of Zimbabwe Collective Bargaining Negotiations. resources they had as the economy are rated 120 percent above South Zimbabwe Security Guards Union (ZISEGU) general secretary (EMCOZ) has finally adopted the was not performing well. Africa (in terms of compliance)," ratification of the International Phillimon Nhema said the negotiations did not yield anything up to Once it ratifies the Convention, he said. the expectations of the union membership and there was Labor Organization Convention ILO Consultant, Debru Nagash, Zimbabwe would be required to disgruntlement with guards already geared for action. C187, which provides for the formulate a policy that seeks to said employers needed to change promotional framework for promote a safe and healthy working their perspective that occupational "The employers are refusing to give workers a meaningful occupational safety and health. environment and promote basic health should be resisted as it was increment. In the first collective bargaining meeting we held the A meeting of EMCOZ members principles such as assessing risks, very expensive and unnecessary, employers were proposing a two percent increment which translates held in Harare last month agreed on avoiding risks at source and but accept that workers were also to US$4.00. in the second meeting they had moved up to 2.9 percent the endorsement of the convention developing a preventive safety and human beings who could make which is not meaningful at all. We then decided to give feedback on after it was realised most health culture among its citizens. mistakes. the progress to our members and they did not take it lightly. The companies already met the Labor and Government had already "It must be accepted that workers feeling among the generality of our membership is that employers requirements prescribed by the endorsed the ratification of the are also human beings who can are just stingy and are prepared to withdraw their labour," he said. convention and that there would be Convention. make mistakes, and that such errors no direct monetary costs to the He said the union is currently consulting its membership The National Social Security can be aggravated by a number of countrywide on the way forward. organizations related to compliance Authority (NSSA) Director for factors. Stress and family problems with the international statute. "We are consulting our members on the way forward. We have not Occupational Safety and Health, can also fuel accidents," he said, yet declared a deadlock but there are indications that the employers EMCOZ Executive Director, John adding that around 2.3 million Rodgers Dhliwayo, however, noted are not negotiating in good faith. We are trying to get poverty datum Mufukari said soon after the that there was nothing that workers were killed at the meeting; "We can now safely say employers should be afraid of as all workplace annually line linked wages but the employers are resisting," he said. that business has endorsed that we the requirements of the conventions Nagash noted that despite The security sector minimum is currently pegged at USD$200.00 should ratify the convention were already in place as they were accounting for just 12 percent of the per month but some employers are refusing to pay while (C187). So I will be writing statutory. global population, Africa had the reneging on other non monetary benefits government formally informing "Once the state has put in place highest number of occupational them of our position so that the requirements of the convention and deaths. formal process for ratification can the policy is in place, you have to start," show evidence that it is working at 2013 MAY, The Worker Page 7 ZTWU to contest DW liquidation STAFF REPORTER judicial manager. We also understand that the other group of secured creditors he Zimbabwe Textile constitutes a number of suppliers Workers Union is of goods and services that Tcontesting the registered a special purpose liquidation of David vehicle before securing assets Whitehead after an worth about US$800 000. announcement by the After secured creditors, there provisional judicial manager are preferential creditors who do Winsley Militala that the not hold security for their claims, textile giant has virtually but rank above concurrent collapsed and recommended creditors. They are paid from the the company be liquidated. proceeds of unencumbered or ZTWU national organiser bonded assets. Norman Makono said the union The preferential creditors was of the view that the company include employees' still had a lifeline and was remuneration up to US$400 to capable of rejuvenating under a each employee in terms of new management. Section 103 of the Insolvency "We are of the view that Act (Chapter 6:04) and statutory David Whitehead if placed under bodies such as the Zimbabwe a new judicial manager can Revenue Authority. bounce back to its original There are 902 workers that position," he said. filed claims worth about US$7,8 He said liquidation was the m i l l i o n . last option which should be But DW employees, as preferent All gone - the once vibrant textile industry is now a shadow of its former self exercised after every other creditors, are eligible to receive option has failed but DW had not only US$360 000. yet reached that extreme. The remaining amount is "As the union that represents under concurrent creditors, the workers in the textile sector the last ones to be paid. ZESA TECHNICAL EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION liquidation of DW would be the They are paid from any proceeds last thing that we can wish for of unencumbered assets that and we strongly feel that if the remain after secured and company is put under a preferent creditors have been competent judicial manager its p a i d . fortunes can change. Liquidation They are paid in proportions to Tel: 04-792138/43 Merchant House No. 43 will benefit our members the amounts owing to them. Telefax: 04-792155 Robson Manyika because they will get very little If all creditors and the costs Cell: 0772684118 Avenue from the proceeds," he said. of liquidation are paid in full, any E-mail: [email protected] DW was for the second time amounts remainingmust be Cnr R/ Manyika &2nd placed under judicial distributed to the shareholders management in December 2010, according to their rights and having gone through the same interests in the company. reconstruction between 2005 Assuming that the assets are MAY DAY COMMEMORATIONS and 2008 under Cecil Madondo. sold at a 20 percent discount, the Elgate Investments, which estimated net realisable value of acquired a 52 percent stake in the DW assets would therefore be The Zesa Technical Employees Association now the firm, applied for a second US$4,8 million. judicial management after the Liquidation costs, secured and NATIONAL ENERGY WORKERS UNION(NEWUZ) company plunged into financial preferent creditors would c r i s i s . require a total of US$4,5 million join the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions In the event that the former leaving only US$240 000 for and its affiliates to commemorate textile giant is liquidated, as distribution to concurrent recommended by Militala, creditors. International Workers Day workers and other suppliers of Concurrent creditors filed under the theme goods and services are set to lose claims worth US$8,8 million of out. which US$7,5 million belongs to Assets sold during the workers after removing liquidation do not normally fetch US$360 000 which is classified WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, ORGANISE, market values more so, when the as preferent creditors. property market is depressed. With US$240 000 available for UNITE AND FIGHT ON According to a report by the distribution to concurrent provisional judicial manager, creditors, it is clear that this class DW assets are pegged at US$6 of creditors will be able to million. The liquidator gets a recover 3 percent of their claims. statutory 7 percent of value In other words, concurrent realised from the sale of assets. creditors could be paid US3c in Workers Day is a time to for self introspection and workers The order of priority in every US$1 owed by David paying creditors will see secured Whitehead. in the energy sector stand proud of their union and resolve creditors ranking first, including At the same time, once the to achieve better working conditions. the liquidator and these are paid liquidation order has been from the proceeds of the sale of granted, contracts of We shall resist any machinations from the employers the secured assets. However, employment will be to divide the union following our successful congress secured creditors filed claims automatically terminated and worth US$3,8 million to the workers will lose employment. and resolution to cover the whole energy industry liquidator. Employees currently occupying There is one creditor holding company houses will face a special notarial bond on an eviction as these properties will immovable property in Kadoma have to be sold as part of the that has been valued at US$2,4 liquidation process. million, according to the statement of financial position Shinga Mushandi Shinga, Qina Sisebenzi Qina prepared by the provisional Page 8 The Worker, MAY 2013 Gender-based violence high in Malawi sugar plantations – MCTU

Workers Union (CIAWU), Transport and General Union, Security Union and Building Union. Speaking during the event, MCTU Treasurer General, Mary Dzinyemba disclosed that some of workplace gender-based violence cases are not reported as most women choose not to speak out for fear of losing their jobs. "Sugar plantation areas register more cases because of high illiteracy rate. Most employers enjoy taking advantage of their illiterate employees. And most of the cases are suppressed as the victims prefer to protect their jobs; eventually they are constantly abused by their bosses," Dzinyemba explained. MCTU has adopted a gender policy, which according to Dzinyemba is used to offer advice and methodologies to end gender-based violence against women in workplaces. Dzinyemba who is also General Secretary for CIAWU disclosed that MCTU has trained educators who offer counseling to affected women and assisting in implementing the gender policy as well as setting up women departments within the affiliates. "We have specific programmes to tackle the issues of gender-based violence at the workplace through which, we offer them civic education on women’s rights and how they can handle such incidents. International Women's Day events offer a platform for us to speak out Female plantation workers on their routine duties our views and brainstorm on how we can tackle the problem of gender-based violence," she added. The event was funded by International Union of ugar plantation areas register high rate of Hotel Food Processing and Catering Workers Union Food (IUF) under the theme; a Promise is a Promise, gender-based violence against women with (HFPCMU), an affiliate to MCTU in Blantyre in March. Time for Action to End Violence against Women. This Sabout 10-15 cases reported every three The event which was preceded by a big walk, year, International Women's Day was commemorated months, Malawi Congress of Trade Union (MCTU) attracted several MCTU affiliates including the Sugar on March 8. At the event, the participants complained of has disclosed. Plantation and Allied Workers Union of Malawi courts being lenient on punishments on cases of The disclosure was made during a (SPAWUM), Tobacco and Allied Workers Union of gender-based violence against women. commemoration of International Women's Day by Malawi (T0AWUM), Commercial Industrial and Allied ZIMBABWE SECURITY GUARDS UNION NATIONAL ENGINEERING WORKERS UNION

The Zimbabwe Security Guards Union NEWU proudly joins join the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions and its affiliates to commemorate and its affiliates to commemorate International Workers Day International Workers Day under the theme under the theme

Winner of the day T. K Rundodza receives a DSTV decorder, the 1st prize for the ZCTU NER raffle WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, ORGANISE, ORGANISE, UNITE AND FIGHT ON UNITE AND FIGHT ON NEWU ONE GUARD, ONE UNION, ONE ZISEGU THE UNION THAT CARES AND FIGHTS PROUD TO BE ZCTU Shinga Mushandi Shinga, Shinga Mushandi Shinga, Qina Sisebenzi Qina Qina Sisebenzi Qina 2013 MAY, The Worker Page 9 ZUCWU Mutare branch warns members of ZFTU interferences

BY DICKSON CHAERUKA Rural Councils Workers Union of the labour Act adding that the union (ZURCWU) which is an affiliate to is also an affiliate to the country's most The Zimbabwe Urban Councils ZFTU. representative body, the Zimbabwe Workers Union (ZUCWU) Eastern It was reported that most Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU). Regional Administrator, Progress workers in the Health and Parks Mudondo further stated that Mudondo has warned the local Departments were forced to sign the ZFTU individuals wanted to capitalise authority's employees to be wary of recruitment forms by their supervisors on the hard times currently briefcase unions affiliated to ZFTU after being threatened with dismissals experienced by the Council employees whose officers have been illegally on failing to comply. which included late remunerations and manning council's departments ‘'ZFTU personalities has deterioration of working conditions threatening and forcing workers to join always been after causing confusion to due to the financial crisis looming at them. the workers with their militant like the local authority. He said that his It has been alleged that two type of operations. It's very union was taking all the necessary individuals identified as Wengai unfortunate that some supervisors are procedures to bring sanity to the Tembenuka and Muyambo had been being implicated in the illegal workers plight. unilaterally circulating recruitment recruitments whilst threatening the It was reported that the ZFTU forms to council workers in all its workers with employment termination efforts to implement subscriptions departments' forcing workers to on failing to comply,'' said Progress from the forced recruitments hit a brick denounce ZUCWU. They are allegedly Mudondo. after the Municipality's administration moving around with joining forms. He stated that his union, denied them an audience castigating The two individuals reportedly ZUCWU, which boasts of over 15 000 their operations as illegal and not connived with some of the Councils members, was only a registered entity according to procedures. departmental supervisors in luring to the Municipality of Mutare workers to join a bogus union employment council undertaking; as identified as the Zimbabwe Urban and stipulated in Section 31 (1) (a) and (b)

Marondera industry ZIMBABWE URBAN COUNCILS WORKERS UNION struggling to rise BY KIMION TAGWIREI Strolling alone down the chemicals and Farm-a-Rama once vibrant Marondera industrial which is now much into transport site provokes deep thoughts as business. fallen big buildings, dangerously A number of workers serving WORKERS DAY MESSAGE pot-holed strip roads and functional companies in the graveyard silence increase and industry spoke out that the This is time for ZCTU and its affiliates to celebrate the global and local victories signify serious industrial downfall companies are failing to pay of workers. while very few people walk in and workers well as business is too low. At the same time, there is need to introspect, meaning to look at ourselves out of the pathetic place. "Business is still very low that these A number of once promising few companies here are not objectively. white owned industrial companies managing to pay well. Industry in like Frank Collins and nearby Marondera is still down since Questions that jump out are:> clothing factories have been production remains low due to turned into residential places as many factors ranging from political many industrialists succumbed to and economic decline. 1. From 1980 (at attainment of our independence) have we made any gains and our national political and Some industrial places have if so,have we managed to protect those gains, if not why haven't we not? economic meltdown. also been turned into churches. Some spacious industrial Christ Embassy and Celebration buildings have been occupied by church are some of the churches 2. Has the inclusive government improved the workers welfare? if not why and groups of people alleged to be occupying some industrial what has the labour movement done or is doing about it? ZANU PF supporters now buildings for their services. growing maize in the industries. Celebration church is alleged One of the residents who spoke out to have just left now OSRAM Experience, has taught us that we need to have permanent interests and not to this reporter said, "Since these building into another bigger place friends. Our future does not lie in the politicians' hands but in God and the places were left by white in the industry. industrialists no one utilized them It is alleged that a number of workers as a collective. so a number of homeless people churches are considering renting just moved from renting to do industrial buildings because they Urban councils have had their share of problems, ranging from non payment of subsistence farming and make a are reportedly cheaper than town living. buildings as many industrial salaries and subscriptions to dastard victimisation. Many other companies left buildings are lying idle. by promising giants when One of the working indigenization threats mounted are companies' managers commented The secret to victory lies in training cadres and arming /equipping them with currently deserted whilst the big that the coming of churches and sophisticated weapons in the form of knowledge or information. buildings are crumbling due to possible entrance of private lack of maintenance. Numerous schools in the industry are signs of buildings in the industrial site are hopelessness on the part of the "Workers of the world unite in solidarity forever” now just ghost rooms while others industry. "Our industry collapsed have become dumping sites. as effective industrialists left when New occupants growing government began the chaotic NB: Please note that the new address for ZUCWU offices is Number 16 Airport maize in most places there are indigenization exercise and since Road,Hatfield, Harare. turning some big buildings into then, nothing has been done to raise Tel: 04-573 503 dumping sites and using others as the industry as the environment bush toilets. remains bad as you see." The situation is just pathetic Countless people who lost M.T. Mahlangu that some parts of the industrial jobs as companies closed in the ZUCWU General Secretary site are stinking like pure dumping industry have joined cross border sites. trading while others began some PGD in Law - UZ Very few companies still self-employment ventures. MBA - NUST struggling to withstand economic Marondera currently has more than Labour Consultant Arbitrator and political pressure include Windmill which supplies Cell: 0712 864 275/ 0775 547 120 fertilizers, stock feeds. Agro- to page 12 Email: [email protected] Page 10 The Worker, MAY 2013 Focus on Safety, Health and Social Protection WITH NATHAN BANDA

The main aim of Social protection is to protect citizens the poverty datum line. The question many of us would ask $10.00 per month? How far can a paltry US$ 10 take from social contingencies and poverty. It should also be is whether NSSA has fulfilled its promises? The answer you given the fact that, the cost of living in Zimbabwe viewed as a human right issue that ensures a minimum obviously would be received with mixed reactions with the has just gone high? Insurance Pensions Commission standard of living, and a way to strengthening on-going majority probably on the negative and others positive. This which is supposed to be helping out, is up in arms with work within health, education, including HIV and AIDS. kind of reaction obviously is triggered by the fact that many the level of pension payouts implemented by NSSA According to DFID it defines social protection as a workers feel short changed and can not pull out because the which we all know are currently pegged at US$40 with subset of public actions to address risk, vulnerability, and deduction is more of a tax obligation. a likelihood of a further increase to $60 per month a chronic poverty. Its goal being to improve poor and Since the introduction of NSSA we still have sectors not point IPEC is not happy about. vulnerable people's ability to tackle economic and social covered and that has subjected workers from those sectors It has found no good reason why workers should be risks such as unemployment, exclusion, illness, disability, mostly the Domestic and the Informal workers living in paid a sound pension payout thereby defeating the whole or age; to protect their livelihoods and welfare; and to abject poverty, at old age and even when they are in need of objective of social security protection. When the enable them to better participate in economic growth medical attention. The research done by the Zimbabwe Country introduced mult i- Currency, Zimbabweans lost processes. Congress of Trade Unions in Conjunction with Training out and all their savings were wiped out at the expense of There are three common forms of social protection and Research Support Centre informed that, half of workers did the Pension Houses which were able to acquire these are social assistance (cash or in-kind transfers), not know the benefits provided by schemes and in general properties and left the contributors poor and wondering social insurance, and labour market interventions. most of benefits satisfaction were higher for funeral plans as to want went wrong. All the High Rise Buildings, as According to the Declaration of Human Rights articles 22, and pensions than for medical aid. Interestingly 68% of we admire them were acquired through the workers' 23.3, and 25, social protection is a human right and is those interviewed were not satisfied with the NSSA mostly pension contributions, leaving the very same workers' included in the International Covenant for Economic, at their rate of responsiveness to Claims. It also revealed average life span reduced by way of succumbing to Social and Cultural Rights (Articles 7, 9 and 11). As such, areas of priorities which unfortunately are still to be diseases which by nature could be preventable. it is mainly attached to the right to an adequate standard of considered but when nobody knows and these are Health What then should be the way forward? All the living and the right to social security. Cash-based social Care; Housing; Funeral; Pension; Maternity (overall, but contributors ought to be mobilized and informed of the assistance schemes including social non-contributory highest in females) Unemployment; Pension need higher in best form of Social Security scheme that should ensure pensions, child benefits, or disability benefits have proved those already in pension schemes; sustenance of one's wellbeing at retirement! to have a positive impact on a number of social indicators In the US we are informed , average life expectancy Universal Coverage is possible but the fiscal space such as poverty reduction, improved nutrition, increased improved to 79 when the Social Security Scheme begun and can be won through political will, Trade Unions will access to water and sanitation, health care, and education. we expect the same in Zimbabwe but unfortunately not so have an impact on the policy debates at national level, They add valuable capital that can be invested in the local because of the economic challenges and the lack of a living this was the theme of the ILO Workers' Symposium on economy. They create jobs, support families affected by wage. It is our hope that with time through change in the Role of Trade Unions in the Global Economy and the HIV/AIDS, and contribute to increased self-respect and policies the Social security will begin to pay off and workers Fight against Poverty held in 2005 Geneva. participation in society – not the least for women. will start to realize better benefits. Your views and comments would be most welcome, Social security in Zimbabwe came into existence in Whilst the Government has done its best in introducing watch this space for yet another analysis on Social 1994 and it was not easily accepted by the majority of the National Social security Scheme, challenges have been security System in Zimbabwe as viewed by Workers Zimbabwean workers as it was seen as yet another form of registered within the private occupational pension scheme contact : [email protected] a tax deduction on workers earning which are way below which is worse than NSSA; imagine a monthly payout of

ZIMBABWE CHEMICAL, FEDERATION OF FOOD & ALLIED PLASTICS & ALLIED WORKERS UNIONS OF ZIMBABWE WORKERS UNION ZIMBABWE

ZCPAWU join the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions FFAWUZ and its affiliates to commemorate joins International Workers Day the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions under the theme and its affiliates to commemorate International Workers Day under the theme “WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, ORGANISE, UNITE AND FIGHT ON” “WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, ORGANISE, UNITE AND FIGHT ON”

We Shall Fight to the end defending Workers in the Food industry demand decent jobs as the interests of our members and we celebrate our DAY. We demand Poverty Datum Line (PDL) the generality of workers until we achieve wages and international standards to apply in our industries. decent work standards We take pride in our unity of purpose and will not rest until we consolidate our gains and transform our affiliates into world class unions that rid the industry of exploitation. Shinga Mushandi Shinga Qina Sisebenzi Qina Shinga Mushandi Shinga, Qina Sisebenzi Qina 2013 MAY, The Worker Page 11

Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation BMZ and Development medico international Page 12 The Worker, MAY 2013 Of elections, scandals and May Day

favour of the current leadership and some AS elections get close, the Zanu PF people who were enjoying themselves in the propaganda machinery is getting oiled by the diaspora. This is more dangerous than the Zanu day. One tactic they have now resorted to is to PF fight because if the grassroots abandons the line up number of people to predict President part, then that is it. Robert Mugabe's victory. Another interesting factor in the coming First Zanu PF is making mince meat out elections is the fight on the web. All political of opinion polls results by organizations like parties and officials seem to have taken to the Freedom House and Mass Public Opinion that web with Facebook and Twitter being the battle predicted a Mugabe win. They have also found grounds. Dubious characters like Baba and an ally through National Constitutional Amai Jukwa have all of a sudden, become Assembly (NCA) leader Lovemore popular as they debate various political issues. Madhuku, who is bitter with Morgan There is no doubt that boys like the cee ten have Tsvangirai for not supporting him on the draft joined the fray on the web. Constitution. Of course, with the web and anonymous Now we have church names, people can leaders being roped in play dirty. Already who claim that it has been we see names of revealed by God that CHIGUMURA Ministers being Mugabe would win. In linked to scandals, fact, it was claimed that particular sex '100 prophets' had scandals on the predicted a Mugabe web. There is no victory. Utter rubbish! doubt that more Chigumura believes and more 'juicy' all this is meant to prepare stories will emerge. Zimbabweans, This is going to be a psychologically, for different election ZANU PF SECRETARY FOR ADMINISTRATION rigged elections. The Zanu altogether. DIDYMUS MUTASA PF propagandists want us A S to believe that it is God given that Robert Zim Mugabe will win. Who would dispute the babwe marks Workers' Day, it is result of elections when prophets have said so? still disturbing to note that there Very soon we will have prophets like are some people in the media ZIMBABWE CONSTRUCTION & ALLIED TRADES WORKERS UNION Makandiwa being roped in, mark my words. fraternity that still speaks of STILL with elections, things are getting two factions in the ZCTU yet hotter by the day in both the MDC-T and Zanu there are court rulings to that PF. We hear there is gnashing of teeth as top end. What is more disturbing is brass from both parties face an exit. They are the fact that they do not even doing, I am told, whatever they can to shield refer to the court rulings. This themselves from primary elections. The arose from the fact that young 'turks' are saying it is time for a change, Raymond Majongwe and his but they are facing serious resistance from group were planning to hold party dinosaurs. their May Day own However, the fight is more interesting in commemorations. The court Zanu PF where it has taken a succession battle specifically barred them from WORKERS DAY COMMEMORATIONS with Manicaland Province battling out to oust using the name ZCTU or Didymas Mutasa. Although it appears that holding a meeting in the name Mutasa is gunning for the party chairperson, of the ZCTU. Why the his real target is the presidium. Mutasa knows journalists do not ask them on The ZCATWU national executive and its entire membership joins other local and that is a mystery. If these guys international trade unions in celebrating the International Workers Day. quite well that Mugabe will soon disappear We celebrate the day under the theme from the radar and his only chance of getting go ahead, they will be in the top job is if he gets into the presidium. contempt of court and they will In the MDC T, the real battle is with its be arrested. grassroots support that feels that the party has We hope and trust that no WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, ORGANISE, sidelined them in the primary elections in cheque book journalism is UNITE AND FIGHT ON

Marondera industry struggling We commemorate this day with a clear conscience for the need to improve the welfare of our members during and after employment. from page 9 We take pride in building the future of our members through twenty-five flea market shops where self-employed people are trading as employment the Low Cost Housing Scheme to be spread across the country. remains down in the small town. "Many of us lost jobs as industry collapsed and we could not get employed anywhere so the only option left for many is buying and selling like you see…" ZCATWU urges its membership to regularly check their pension contributions said one who rents a table in one of the flea markets. to avoid losing out in this noble initiative of providing decent Clothing business is flooding in Marondera as too many people are joining the venture due to desperation. "It seems one of the promising businesses, but the number of flea markets shelter to those who sweat in the construction industry. is getting bigger than the number of clients." Said another trader. We also urge our membership to guard against bogus unions Some former industrial workers who had capacity to begin big ventures bought taxis which are fleecing workers in the construction industry. and joined transport business – which is now also flooding. Marondera currently has more than eighty taxis struggling. The transport business is alleged to be problematic due to Shinga Mushandi Shinga, Qina Sisebenzi Qina mounting competition and police corrupt raids. he collapse of industry in Marondera has caused multifarious challenges including the rise of crime – reported robberies, prostitution and related crimes have increased since the fall of the industry. ZCATWU CARES 2013 MAY, The Worker Page 13 NEC Security Industry set offices in Mutare

BY STAFF REPORTER decentralise its operations and ensuring total representation to he National issues which arise in the industry,'' Employment Council for he said. the Security Industry T The ZISEGU Eastern Regional (NECSI) is set to open its Officer, Justin Muwonda inaugural Eastern Regional confirmed and welcomed the Offices, a move hailed by the development saying this was a long Zimbabwe Security Guards awaited gesturer which would go a Union (ZISEGU) The long way in expediting resolution development will increase of matters arising in the industry. efficiency and adequate ''Recruitment of a Designated representation in dealing with Agent (DA) in our region have a issues of the sector in the border big positive impact to our trade. town. This means that concerns of our Speaking at a planning Industry would effectively be workshop held recently in the looked into especially region attended by employers and determinations on grievances workers representatives, the between employers and NECSI Chairperson, Audrey employees,'' he said. Chiute Dube confirmed that the It was established that the NEC had resolved to open a number of private security branch office in the city and companies operating in the region everything was in place for the have been on the rise and some development. were unregistered. So popular has ''Some employers and workers The NEC for the security industry has a lot on its table to improve the welfare of security guards been the business among new representatives in the region have indigenous enterprising locals - adopted the move to open a branch representative union operating in the new NEC offices in the region the Commercial Sector, which they mainly due to favourable office. This would be the third the province, ZISEGU, boasts of while some other few mainly the claimed represented so many economical capital the business office after some are already over 1500 membership. indigenous bogus firms were still sectors and was falling short in requires. operational in Bulawayo and Muwonda confirmed that sceptical about the development. dealing with their grievances There are about 32 private Harare. The NESI is considering renowned firms including Fawcet, Security Guards in the country including deprivation to Collective security companies operating in opening offices in all the country's Safeguard and Peace security were registered their own NEC in early Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Manicaland and the industry's only representative regions in a bid to subscribing to the establishment of 2011 and broke from the NEC for Labour Court orders VID ZIMBABWE AMALGAMATED RAILWAY WORKERS UNION manager’s reinstatement

BY STAFF REPORTER

HE Labour Court has "The respondent (Ministry of ordered the reinstatement of Transport, Communication and Ta Marondera-based Vehicle Infrastructure Development)'s Inspection Department depot verdict and dismissal penalty are manager who was dismissed for accordingly set aside. Appellant is m i s c o n d u c t . accordingly reinstated to his original The manager Martin Musengezi was position with full pay and benefits accused of unlawfully issuing vehicle from the date of his dismissal," reads fitness certificates to public transport part of the ruling. The Zimbabwe Amalgamated Railway Workers Union operators with a single signature and "If reinstatement to his original join the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions was dismissed after a hearing. position is no longer an option the and its affiliates to commemorate Musengezi's dismissal was parties are free to approach the court prompted by the Disciplinary Hearing for quantification of damages," she International Workers Day Committee which found him guilty of s a i d . under the theme contravening the Public Service In her ruling, Kudya noted that there Regulations in that he failed to follow were instances when Musengezi had laid down procedures by issuing 119 to man the depot alone due to staff certificates of fitness without another shortages adding that the conduct “WORKERS UNDER SIEGE, ORGANISE, officer signing in the witness section complained of by the employer was in the RMT4 book and 19 Certificates not unique to appellant's depot. UNITE AND FIGHT ON” of Fitness to vehicles without "Some of the depots documents Operator Licences and prejudiced showed that what happened at the Railway Workers commemorate this Day at a time they are faced with numerous the State of US$2375,00. appellant's depot also happened at He appealed against the decision depots which were manned by one challenges and setbacks. This is a day to reflect and map the way forward to to dismiss arguing that he had been depot manager. Certificates from victimised because the those other depots contained single overcome our challenges. We find solace and strength in this year’s theme as it aptly circumstances that led him to issue signatures which were not witnessed summarize our predicament. Let us soldier on and take the employer head on fitness licenses alone were not new notwithstanding the fact that two in the company as there were other signatures were required for and persevere to our victory. Let us be resolute and unwavering in confronting depots which issued the the transparency purposes. certificates with only one signature "The directive by the commission the “stingy” and merciless management. due to staff shortages. to the ministry to carry out Labour Court president Lillian comprehensive investigations into all Kudya ruled that Musengezi be depots to establish the accurate reinstated with full salary and picture about the practice was not Shinga Mushandi Shinga, Qina Sisebenzi Qina benefits from the date of the unlawful complied with," Kudya said. d i s m i s s a l . Page 14 The Worker, MAY 2013 Conduct of arbitrators in light of SI 173 of 2012 The conduct of arbitrators in provides that the Arbitration Act dollars in the case of an given to the parties and not prior prevent any bias or preventing respect of labour matters is now [Chapter 7:15] shall apply to a individual employee or employer to that. any reasonable apprehension of governed by the provisions of dispute referred to compulsory dispute. A total of four hundred An arbitrator is also entitled to bias. Statutory Instrument 173 of 2012. arbitration subject to the dollars is now chargeable in the case be impartial and to observe the If a party is not satisfied that Prior to the gazzetting of the said provisions of the Labour Act. of collective disputes and five principles of natural justice at all despite disclosure of any previous or instrument, arbitrators were In terms of section 6 of the said hundred dollars in the case of a times. The principles are that he current relationship, that party is governed by the Arbitration Act Regulations, an arbitrator is now union/employer association dispute. should accord a party an entitled to seek the arbitrator to by virtue of section 98 which entitled to charge three hundred An arbitrator is therefore opportunity to present its case and recuse himself from presiding over prohibited from charging any fees that he should not be biased at all. the dispute and an arbitrator who which exceed the gazzetted Observance of the principles of would have been requested to recuse the figures given above. An natural justice will ensure that there himself is entitled to do so. arbitrator who charges more is procedural fairness. No arbitrator is allowed to Zimbabwe Congress Of Trade Unions than what is prescribed in In endeavoring to ensure canvass for clients or to engage in the Regulations would be impartiality, the arbitrator shall any form of advertising in relation to guilty of an offence and ensure that written submissions are arbitration of labour disputes. liable to be off the roll by made and exchanged between the Arbitrators will therefore be virtue of the provisions of parties and that each party is given professional and will thus not tout in section 8. an adequate opportunity to make order to have clients. In handling a matter, an counter submissions. Arbitrators are also prohibited arbitrator is from assisting, allowing, entitled to treat all enabling or partnering an significant unregistered person to (ZCTU) aspects of the conduct a hearing, receive arbitration as or recover fees for services confidential which can only be offered AFFILIATE UNIONS unless if the by an appointed arbitrator. parties waive the Failure to observe any of UNION CONTACT DETAILS requirement. the above mentioned ethics What this means is regarded as an offence

CEMENT, LIME &ALLIED WORKERS UNION OF ZIM (CLAWUZ) is that an and can result in an TEL: 09-884709/884710 arbitrator cannot arbitrator being struck off disclose any the roll. COMMERCIAL WORKERS UNION OF ZIM 0712584067 /0774170442 aspect of arbitration to any It is a further obligation that an The above ethics form part of the arbitrator must discharge his duties FEDERATION OF FOOD & ALLIED WORKERS UNIONS OF ZIM party other than the parties Regulations which have been TELEFAX 748482 before him. This with propriety without being promulgated to regulate the conduct requirement appears to be influenced by any partisan interest, of arbitrators. It also appears that the GAPWUZ TEL: 04-762897 / 734141 aimed at preventing any public clamour, family, personal, raising of qualifications to a degree party from suffering any social, political or other interests. level and thus preventing paralegals NATIONAL ENGINEERING WORKERS UNION TEL759597-8 0773599228 loss as a result of an Again, this points to the fact that the from being appointed as arbitrators unsanctioned release of any arbitrator must be impartial. was done to improve the conduct of NATIONAL UNION OF THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY Fax:752064/ Tel:09-64432 information by the The regulations also require that arbitrators. arbitrator. an arbitrator should disclose to the It however appears that there is RAILWAY ARTISANS UNION (RAU) Telefax: 0964952 An arbitrator is parties or the conciliator any current no empirical evidence to the effect prohibited from informing or past managerial, that paralegals appointed as RAILWAY ASSOCIATION OF ENGINEMEN Telefax: 09-67447 anyone of the decision in representational, or consultative arbitrators were responsible for 09-70041/786001 advance of the time it is relationship with any employer or misconducts. Zim AMALGAMATED RAIWAY WOURKERS UNION (ZARU) 09-609948 given to the parties. This employers' organization , trade means that the decision will union or a federation that is involved Basil Makururu is a registered Zim BANKS & ALLIED W/U TEL: 04-703744 / 707779 only be known from the time in the dispute at hand. legal practitioner who writes in his that it would have been This is clearly intended to personal capacity. ZIM CATERING& HOTEL W/U Tel 04-758903 Fax:758902 Zim CHEMICALS,PLASTICS &ALLIED W/U Tel:2901010 / 0773371708 Hillcrest College in bid to waive back pays Tel:773953 / 750158-9 ZIM CONSTRUCTION & ALLIED TRADES W/U (ZCATWU) Fax: 773967 BY DICKSON CHAERUKA Zim DOMESTICS & ALLIED W/U Telefax: 775813/7 ver 100 workers at Hillcrest College, It was reported that the employer was in a an elite Private School located in the bid to negotiate with employees a payment ZESSCWU Tel 700902/ Fax:704747 eastern border town of Mutare are plan outside the court orders stipulations. O It was reported that the employer had up in arms against their management for not ZFTATU Tel: 736649/ Fax: 737686 implementing court orders which since turned hostile to the workers and was employing dirty tricks as well as tactics in an Zim PULP & PAPER W/U Tel: 062-2331-9 recommended remunerations of their back pays. intention to dupe the employees of their accumulated salary arrears. It has been Zim TEXTILE W/U Tel: 770907/Fax:758233 It has been reported that the college has been dragging its feet to honour a series of court alleged that the employer threatened all the workers with a massive retrenchment Zim TOBACCO INDUSTRIAL W/U CELL: 0773459343 orders which compelled it to pay an accumulated amount of US$352 568 26 in back whenever they insist in demanding their back pays. Zim UNION OF JOURNALISTS Tel:795609 / 0772 859 485 pays arrears. The school was amongst the 15 ''Management is never fulfilling its MOTOR VEHICLE MANUFACTURING W/U 0733737423 Independent Institutions which snubbed the promise on the payment issue and has been 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) biting about the bushes. It is very 0773012210 / 0773869590 disheartening because they were trying to Zim METAL ENERGY & ALLIED W/U 0713029199 for the Welfare and Educational Sectors SI 14 and appealed at the High Court where they were orchestrate ways to swindle us all the back RAILWAY YARD OPERATING STAFF Tel: 09-62852 ordered to subscribe to the Statutory Instrument. pays,'' said one of the workers who decided to Employees at the school stated that before remain anonymous NATIONAL MINE WORKERS UNION OF ZIM 0775038150 the judgement, their management insisted that The Zimbabwe Educational Scientific TEL: 09-282482 they would honour the CBA after the labour Social Culture Workers Union (ZESSCWU) ZIM UNIVERSITIES W/U 0712917487 / 0772747387 court judgement-but had never fulfilled the Eastern Regional Officer, Denford Chigweshe confirmed the case saying that the union has Tel: 04-795931 / Fax: 791042 promise. They are owed a total of $88 149 37 in ZIM TEACHERS ASSOCIATION salary arrears from the period January- been busy working on the issue. December last year. ''As a union we have since convened TRANSPORT & GENERAL W/U Tel: 04-702121 / 793477 It was further revealed that the College also meetings with the management so that we can owed the employees a total of $264 418 89 in come up with a friendly bilateral payment ZIM SECURITY GUARDS UNION (ZISEGU) TEL:710161 / 0773475196 back pays arrears for the period May 2009 to plan. The meetings have been very fruitful and all the workers are guaranteed to receive their PUBLIC SERVICE ASSOCIATION (PSA) Tel: 04-704941 August 2010 which the Supreme Court ordered the Institutions to pay the workers. dues without any financial prejudice,'' he said However the Regional Officer has hailed Zim URBAN COUNCILS W/U (ZUCWU) 04-737943 / 0773691786 Hillcrest management maintained that their institution was in a fincial predicament and the institution for smoothly implementing the 2013 Collective Bargain Agreement (CBA) TEL:04-792138/43 they were not in a position to implement the NATIONAL ENERGY WORKERS UNION OF ZIM 0772684118 court orders. for the Independent Schools Sector. PROUD TO BE ZCTU 2013 MAY, The Worker Page 15 Make tender love to me . . . don't rape me!!! hen a husband forces or something could be done about Reporting it also meant having makes love to a woman it. long time he may end up forcing rape is rape!!! to live with the consequences if the who is not either ready A lot of women complain that himself on her (raping her), A long time ago in some areas, W husband or partner was arrested otherwise he has a right to file for or does not want at that time, do we their partners make love to them they used to say when a woman was which could mean the end of the call it rape? when they are not ready or when they divorce on the grounds of unfulfilled satisfied, she would wake up earlier relationship. When a man or woman forces his are just not in the mood, or marital duties or he can go and get it than usual and sweep the yard Has this now become the way of or her partner to have sex, it becomes sometimes just force themselves on elsewhere. But is this an excuse for singing and smiling, greeting doing it, why can't a man make rape because it is not consensual. them, thereby making them feel like rape? everyone with a smile, and if she was tender love to his woman and make Rape in a marriage or logs or just objects of the 'act'. To the men out there; after not satisfied then she would wake up her happy? relationship is the worst yet complex Most of them said they do not having forced yourself on your late sweep the yard in a gloomy Tender love making will not only kind of crime to prosecute. have a choice; they just let the man woman and satisfied your needs, mood and hardly greeting anyone. make the woman happy, but will A lot of women are being raped in 'rape' them every night as it has how do you think she feels after that, This was done so that the elders their homes everyday by their become the way of doing it, but rape especially when she looks at you would approach the husband to find husbands, some are raped by their is rape regardless of the snore next to her, all torn apart out what the problem was, and try to boyfriends and cannot report to circumstances. and hurt? solve it. anyone because they say it is not Some women argued that if you Surprisingly some young This in my opinion would help if proper to report such matters or are do not scream and shout then it is not women who seemed very a woman was being abused or if there afraid to do so. rape, a woman is supposed to endure traditional about the subject were any other problems to be solved How then does one survive with in silence especially if it is a husband actually said whenever the in the bedroom. a partner who cannot just take it easy? or a partner. But then again, it is hard husbands wants, the husband These days most women hide Rape in marriages or to prove that a husband has raped a gets lest he goes out to get it such issues and suffer in silence, but relationships is a form of abuse wife, unless there is thorough elsewhere. until when shall women be abused physically and emotionally, it is medical assessment and most This is what these young and not speak out on rape in affecting some women causing stress women are not willing to go through women were taught, to give the marriages or relationships? and lack of performance at work, that process. man whenever he wants, Rape in marriages is real; rape in church and even in society in general. If also they decide to report it distress, even performance at work whether they will be ready or not, relationships is real; stop abusing Some women who showed signs meant lifting the lid on their dirty will improve because a woman will whether they want or not they should women emotionally and physically. of stress confirmed that it is because laundry in public and people will be satisfied. just give. They seemed so much used of the 'rape' at home and wish know their personal issues which According to some men, if a to being abused in such a manner that Stop rape in relationships!!! woman denies her husband for a it has become an everyday life, but

WORKER PUZZLES BY MELULEKI NCUBE Zimbabweans, choose political leaders wisely

....from Page 4 question reasons behind such deplorable behaviour? Politicians Should we vote Morgan keep voters wanting so that they Tsvangirai as president of the come again in next campaigns to nation because of his voice against promise change and voters dictatorship? Is he not a dictator unfortunately think that the too? Will he manage the nation politicians might have reformed well, if he fails to manage his love enough to honour such good relationships? promises. Zimbabweans must take time to Promises of employment are think of a leader before rallying given every campaigning time – behind him – regrets usually follow what has been done to create the impulsive decisions. promised employment? Nothing! I remember people are usually They create employment for their given farming inputs and other relatives, friends and associates and valuables by political party leave the rest to win their hearts by candidates every campaigning same promises come next elections! time. Do voters really question the Promises of peace and qualities of leadership in restoration of the rule of law made politicians who appear so generous many Zimbabweans vote some and responsible during leaders in different constituencies. campaigning times, When such Where is the peace? Zimbabwe is cunning politicians always still very violent! Where is the rule disappear just after elections? of law? Political hooligans and Politicians are very good in murderous politicians are still cheating voters – they only avail walking free in streets, threatening themselves to voters whenever some more reign of terror come campaigns begin. They disappear elections! into filthy, self enriching projects Why Zimbabweans should vote just after elections. Robert Mugabe, Morgan Zimbabweans must now refuse Tsvangirai, Simba Makoni, SOLUTIONS FOR LAST MONTH to be cheated and consider quality ACROSS DOWN Welshman Ncube or some of leadership when electing opportunists must be clear to voters. ACROSS 5.Assistants(5) 1.Distribution rep(5,5) leaders. No one should force anyone to vote :1.GeorgeNkiwane, 7.Watch(7) 2.Affirmation(3) We have been taken as toddlers anyone. Choice must be individual! 7.Dressmaker, 9.Meets, 9.Wound mark(4) 3.ZCTU mainly fights for for a very long time – people can Choice must be out of heartfelt 11.Lawe, 14.Gamble, easily promise toddlers some considerations. Choice must be out 11.Barrier(3) this!(7,6) 16.Arrive, 17.Oars, goodies and ignore them just after 13.Workers(5) 4.Transaction of leadership qualities! 20.Osaka, 23.Industries, the toddlers smile and love them. No matter how hard ZANU PF or 14.Ex-ZCTU document(6,4) 24.Value-Added Tax Candidates run around MDC tries to rig elections, President(RIP)(6,7) 6.Building site constituencies, pretending to be Zimbabweans can come out with 15.Turning machine(5) structure(11) DOWN: 1.Gideon Gono, close to people and very leaders of their choice if they 2.Overtime, 3.Gases, responsible for that short 16.Workers break twice 8.Lost projectile(5,6) withstand any pressure and stand up 4.Nyanga, 5.Wire, 6.Neat, campaigning time and seem dead to choose own leaders with all a day for it!(3) 10.Felon(3-7) 8.Ember, 10.Seventy-six, after winning power. wisdom needed. 17.Obey(4) 12.Bosses, collectively(10) 11.Lea, 12.Was, 13.District, Numerous politicians have Feedback; email: 19.Cargo(7) 18.Arid(3) 15.Logan, 18.Refund, changed their lives and kept voters' [email protected] 20.Impart skills(5) 19.Lathe, 21.Saga, 22.Kivu lives the same. Why don't we High time coaches and players form a Union Page 16 The Worker, MAY 2013 Gate charges hike cause furore

he Premier Soccer agreed on." League (PSL) is on a Shabanie Mine have Tcollision course with already set a precedence with soccer fans after giving the club deciding on clubs permission to Wednesday to increase increase gate charges any charges for the cheapest seat t i m e . to $5 and the VIP stand to $10 Although clubs have made an in their midweek match agreement to have soccer against Harare giants, fans pay $3 for the cheapest Dynamos. seats during matches, PSL In the past, only matches chief executive officer involving big clubs like Kennedy Ndebele said clubs Dynamos and Highlanders or are now free to increase one of the two teams against charges if they have pressing Caps United were allowed to financial needs. increase gate charges Ndebele said although they because of their popularity. have set the minimum charge Highlanders Football Club of $3, they did not put a lid or a chairman,Peter Dube said an condition that the clubs cannot increase in gate charges at increase charges. times negatively affects "People have to consider finances of premier soccer that the majority of our teams league clubs as fans boycott in the premiership do not have g a m e s . sponsors, they rely on these Dube said his club does not gate-charges. They have to usually increase gate charges Soccer fans scale fences if overcharged or if the queues are not moving fast pay their players' salaries and for seats normally associated a host of other things to be with low-income earners. taken care of," he said. Meanwhile, Dynamos allegations that they could targets Dynamos. Where window a bit difficult The PSL boss, lose its brand name there is proof we have tried to because we can no longer however, said they and logo after failing meet our end of the bargain, negotiate with other clubs are yet to come up to pay the US$4 900 but where there is nothing we unless we have cash up front," with the maximum owed to a Cypriot cannot pay. This is the case said Mubaiwa. charge for the rest of Financial Company, with that company," he said. The Cypriot Company is ground as they were Qotho Finance. Mubaiwa says they have alleged to have taken still making He says they are been paying all their creditors Dynamos to court and consultations with trying to clear their and he is not aware of the debt received a ruling on last week the relevant name as the club has that they owe to this financial ordering the club to stop its stakeholders. been the epitome of company in Cyprus. name and logo unless they "Of course they corruption and Even when it comes to settled the debt, however, can cash in on the mismanagement for a player transfers, people now Dembare did not oppose the gate charges, but we long time in the have the misconception that application. are yet to come with the chairperson, Kenny Mubaiwa, country. Dynamos are cheats. This has maximum amount they can says his club has engaged its “It's now the norm, anyone made our life on the transfer charge, but I am sure $5 will be lawyers to look into who feels they need money CAPS United cries foul over back stabbers aps United team manager, judging from the negative publicity amazing bunch of talented players. Josphat Rwafa, says there the club is receiving, everyone Interestingly, we have been Care some people who are should notice that there is an approached by some Premiership trying to soil the club's image by underhand working against them. coaches enquiring about the players bungling every project they set their "Since the turn of the year, we have but we turned them down because as sights on. been attacked left, right and a club we are going to use some of "At the moment, we are working centre with people saying the club is these youngsters to play in the flat out to try and lure sponsors, but broke. Of course we are broke, Premier Soccer League this season. when everything seems to be on but it has been blown out of It also shows that all the other clubs course, we hit a brickwall. We almost proportion, people have literary have realised that we have some signed a good deal with Savannah, but magnified everything, the truth will amazing talent here," said Rwafa. when we had to put pen to paper, they always come out," he said. On the team's failure to leave for a told us to put our house in order first, He however says the club's future training camp in Malawi he says that shows we have some individuals looks bright and said most of the they were advised not to come at the who are working against us," he said. players who were on CAPS United last minute. "It is high time people realised that the scholarships at Gutu and Pamushana. "Both clubs we were supposed to club is bigger than any individual, we High school have since relocated to play advised us not to come on all come and go, but we have to the capital and are expected to do Friday as there are food riots, and no preserve Caps United's well this season. gatherings are allowed in that rich history," said Rwafa. "We have good players and I can say country at the moment," he said. TWINE PHIRI The affable manager also says, the future looks bright. We have an Caps United owner