Unpaid dues”
… University of Zambia Unions is demanding for over 500 Million kwacha owed to members since 2015
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (19 – 06 – 2024) – Three prominent unions at the University of Zambia have joined forces in demanding the long-overdue payment of more than 500 million kwacha owed to their members since 2015.
The University of Zambia Lecturer and Researcher Union (UNZALARU), speaking on behalf of UNZAPROSU (Professional Staff Union) and UNZAAWU (Allied Workers Union), expressed adamant concerns over the university’s failure to settle gratuities, pensions, and other financial obligations, some dating back over nine years.
Andrea Phiri, representing the unions, highlighted the imminent high-level meeting scheduled for Friday with key stakeholders, underscoring its critical importance in resolving the protracted financial dispute.
” Following this meeting, a gathering on Monday will assess outcomes and determine further actions if necessary,” Prof Phiri stated.
“Our members are not demanding more than what is rightfully theirs,” asserted Prof. Phiri.
“These payments are essential for their financial well-being and morale.”
Phiri emphasized that the unions’ demands are grounded in fairness and justice, advocating for the timely settlement of debts that directly impact thousands of university staff.
He stressed the solidarity among the unions as pivotal in addressing financial challenges that individual efforts cannot resolve.
“The urgency of this situation is compounded by inflation, which has eroded the value of these long-delayed payments,” Prof. Phiri explained.
“Each passing day without payment exacerbates the financial hardship our members face. Inflation continues to erode the purchasing power of these owed sums, making it increasingly difficult for our members to meet their financial obligations and maintain a decent standard of living,” suggested indicated.
He added that þhe urgency of addressing these outstanding payments cannot be overstated, as the real impact on our members’ lives grows more severe with every delay.”
Phiri noted that the university’s financial struggles have historically triggered unrest among its staff.
“In November 2022, a five-day protest resulted in the release of 100 million kwacha, a fraction of the outstanding amount. He stressed that the current demand exceeds 200 million kwacha to cover debts from 2016 alone, illustrating the depth of financial strain faced by university personnel,” he explained
“Unity and collective action are our cornerstones in this struggle,” Prof. Phiri affirmed. “Our members share a common cause, and together, we will exert necessary pressure to ensure our rightful dues are met.”
As the university unions gear up for pivotal discussions with authorities, the outcome of these deliberations will undoubtedly influence the future trajectory of labor relations at the University of Zambia, impacting the lives of thousands dependent on these overdue payments.
