Njube demo teacher resigns

Robin Muchetu, Senior Reporter

MR Brian Mutsiba, a Biology teacher at Njube High School in Bulawayo, who led a demonstration allegedly over school fees increases with school pupils on 20 January this year has resigned.

The demonstration was purportedly organised as protest by pupils for the increase in school fees from $92 per term to $440 and alleged “poor” teachers’ salaries. 

Bulawayo provincial education director (PED) Mrs Olicah Kaira confirmed the resignation of Mr Mutsiba on Friday last week.

“I have established that he has since tendered his resignation and we do not question the reason for a resignation. He e-mailed us his resignation but we do not know from where,” she said.

After the January demonstrations, Mr Mutsiba fled and has not be seen again. He is on the police wanted list. According to the Public Service Commission (PSC), if a member does not present himself or herself to work for 14 days continuously without being granted leave of absence the salary is frozen. Mrs Kaira confirmed that Mr Mutsiba’s salary has been frozen.

“Yes, after 14 days if you do not report for work your salary ceases and that is the case with the teacher concerned,” she said.

Mr Mutsiba organised the illegal demonstration with over 150 pupils without notice from the school. The police said Mr Mutsiba who is still on the run, is accused of participating in a public gathering with the intent to promote public violence, breach of peace or bigotry and insulting the flag.

On the day in question the pupils left their school and marched into Siyephambili Drive before heading towards the city centre via Luveve Road. They then made a U-turn at Entumbane Shopping Complex after their headmaster ordered them to return to school.