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“I am not going to answer any questions regarding that issue whenever, wherever,” she said.
However, sources yesterday said the inter-ministerial taskforce met to find a solution to the impending crisis.
“The ministers met yesterday to avert the strike and made various recommendations.”
The sources could not shed light on the ministers’ discussions.
“It is agreed that Government should work with the workers for a lasting solution in recognition of the fact that Zimbabwe is currently going through an economic recovery path under sanctions,” they said.
All civil servants unions under the Apex Council last night said they were ready for the industrial action.
Apex Council chairperson and Zimta president, Mrs Tendai Chikowore, said Minister Matibenga had betrayed them.
“She didn’t come and to make matters worse, she was relaying information through principal director Mr Sisimayi,” she said.
“She betrayed our trust. She was new in the office and we agreed to give her the few days she asked for, but now she has snubbed us.”
Mrs Chikowore urged all civil servants to join the strike.
“Tomorrow (today) we will reach all corners and sectors in the country and Thursday there will be no business in all Government departments.”
Teachers Union of Zimbabwe chief executive Mr Manuel Nyawo said Minister Matibenga took them for granted.
“The D-Day has come and passed and this is the beginning of our struggle,” he said.
“We sat for four hours without seeing anyone and this has never happened in the history of negotiations.
“Matibenga was playing hide-and-seek because we understand the inter-ministerial meeting ended way before 2pm,” he said.
“She is going to see the truth on Thursday and all we calling for is solidarity and collaborative efforts from the workers.”
Zimta chief executive Mr Sifiso Ndlovu said: “We are joining the resolution and we are going to show Government that enough is enough.”
Public Service Association executive secretary Mr Emmanuel Tichareva said they will participate in the strike.
Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe secretary-general Mr Raymond Majongwe said they were already on strike.
“Our colleagues have seen the light and we are happy they are joining us to fight this monster.”
Civil servants gave the Government up to yesterday to come up with a position paper on their salaries and working conditions.
They indicated that they will go on strike if Government fails to address their concerns.
Online Reporter