Teachers respond to 'threats of war' by George Charamba

The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) have issued a statement noting the threats by the Presidential Spokesperson George Charamba that the behavior of teachers was similar to a declaration of war on the government.

In a statement on Wednesday ARTUZ said, "We note with concern threats issued by President Emmerson Mnangagwa's Spokesperson George Charamba threatening war against teachers. Primary and Secondary Education Minister Paul Mavima earlier on accused our Union of being political and being funded by international capital. Mavima also accused us of working with  South Africa Communist Party.

"We have every right to reach out to Unions across the globe and working class seeking solidarity at a time when labour rights have been withdrawn by Zimbabwe government. These threats and accusations will not resolve the ensuing labour dispute. Government should restore the value of our salaries."

The association added that they have no intention of fighting the government.

"We do not have intentions to go to war with the incumbent government. We demand a living wage. We will defend our labour rights through constitutional means. We will not be silenced by the ruling elites who are living in luxury when workers are starving."