UNZA WORKERS DEMAND FULL PAYMENT OF K1.3 BILLION OWED TO THEM BY GOVT

 The three worker unions at the University of Zambia –UNZA- are now demanding full payment of the K1.3 billion owed to them by government over the past 9 years before they can resume work.

This demand follows the recent announcement by Education Minister Douglas Siakalima that government has released over K200 million for UNZA payments.

Addressing workers who are on a sitting peace protest at the UNZA graduation grounds today, University of Zambia Professional Staff Union -UNZAPROSU- president Likezo Pumulo who spoke on behalf of the other unions said the recent released K200 million is insufficient and has criticized the conditions attached to the money.

Mr Pumulo also said intimidation tactics from authorities would not deter the unions, especially that President Hakainde Hichilema had promised to settle the outstanding dues once debt restructuring was concluded.

The three unions include the University of Zambia Lecturers and Research Union –UNZALARU-, University of Zambia Professional Staff Union-UNZAPROSU-, and University of Zambia Allied Workers Union-UNZAAWU-.

And when contacted, Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary Joel Kamoko could not be reached as he was reported to be in a meeting by broadcast time.