Labour group threatens to launch global campaign against Chinese investors in Africa
By Staff Writer
THE Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has threatened to launch a global campaign against Chinese investors if the Asian giant does not whip their businessmen to uphold labour rights in their companies.
The details are contained in a petition directed to China’s envoy to Zimbabwe, Guo Shaochun following a recent incident where a Chinese businessmen shot two employees for demanding their wages.
Reports are that Wendy Chikwaira and Kennedy Tachiona were shot at blank range by Zhang Xueun, the mine owner and manager.
“We would like to warn you that if these abuses by Chinese investors continue, the ZCTU will have no option, but to launch a Global campaign against any Chinese investors who come not only to Zimbabwe, but Africa,” ZCTU secretary general ,Japhet Moyo said in the petition.
The labour group said Shaochun’s swift move to condemn the incident is not convincing because the embassy has failed to act on other numerous incidents in the past which continue to be described as isolated incidents.
ZCTU said while it is common knowledge that these abusers are from privately owned companies, the embassy still has a role to play in stopping these errant employers from abusing the workers.
“There is no doubt that your compatriots are a law unto themselves and act with impunity knowing that they have protection from someone in the higher offices. Why is it that of all investors coming to Zimbabwe, the Chinese investors have proved to be the most abusive?
“This is the same behaviour that led Zimbabweans to take arms against white oppressors. Sooner rather than later, workers are bound to retaliate” said Moyo.
Meanwhile, the workers representatives confirmed to NewZimbabwe.com that the injured duo, Chikwaira was treated and discharged from hospital after a bullet grazed his chin, while Tachiona was, , still admitted at a private hospital after being shot in his right leg and right thigh at the time of going to print.
//ENDS/
