Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
WORKERS at Marula Primary School claim they are being bullied and humiliated for joining the National Education Union of Zimbabwe (NEUZ).
Ancillary staff say they face shouting, threats, and what they describe as a “terrifying atmosphere” created by school authorities determined to break their union membership.
The employees allege they are dragged through bizarre interviews at the start of every term where they are forced to answer demeaning questions like, “Who are you?” despite years of service at the school.
Union members say they are singled out for harassment, especially whenever the union communicates with the school. Some have even quit the union out of fear, while others believe the torment is meant to push them to resign without benefits.
“The aim is to frustrate us until we leave, so they don’t have to pay us what we’re owed,” said one distraught worker.
The staff also claim school funds are being used to pay a private lawyer who advises the administration on how to deal with them.
Headmistress Mrs Sitshengisiwe Mutandabari dismissed the allegations, referring all questions to the District Schools Inspector.
NEUZ administrator Ms Jemina Mateko urged affected staff to report any labour disputes, assuring them that the union would assist through official labour tribunals.
The accusations clash with Zimbabwe’s constitution, which guarantees every worker the right to freely join a union of their choice without victimisation.
