adminChronicle Reporters
THE Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has vowed to defy labour reforms that were recently approved by government saying they expose workers to exploitation. Reason Ngwenya, the union’s chairperson for the western region said in an interview that the reforms were unacceptable.
“The labour market reforms are unacceptable. They allow employers to hire and fire at will,” said Ngwenya.
He said Zimbabwe has one of the lowest labour costs in the world yet the retrenchment policy and labour act structures favour employers.
Ngwenya said many workers were out of employment following the closure of many companies and the worst affected was Bulawayo.
He said ZCTU will today announce its way forward regarding the unfair labour reforms at the Workers’ Day commemorations.
Meanwhile, the main Workers’ Day commemorations for workers in the Midlands province will be at Mkoba Stadium in Gweru.
ZCTU regional officer for Midlands Martin Tazvivinga said everything was set for the commemorations.
“Preparations are now at an advanced stage and we are just left with a few things to take care of,” said Tazvivinga.
He said the commemorations will start at 8AM with a procession from Mkoba Five turn-off to the stadium.
Tazvivinga said they were celebrating the day under the theme “Labour Market Flexibility”, which was meant to bring answers to workers’ adjustment to emerging workplace challenges.
“We will be addressing issues pertaining to willingness and ability of workers to respond to changes in the labour market,” said Tazvivinga.
He said companies will be exhibiting their products at the venue.
“Both small-scale and government parastatals from the province will be there displaying their products to members of the public,” he said.
Online Reporter