Obert Mpofu appeals case against journalists

Macro-economic planning minister Obert Mpofu has filed a notice of appeal against a Labour Court arbitral award to 55 staffers at his now defunct The Zimbabwe mail newspaper.

Arbitrator Zakeyo Mutimutema in November last year ruled that Mpofu had violated employment agreements with more than 20 journalists and other support staff.

Mutimutema ruled that the workers remained in Mpofu's employ until such time their contracts are terminated legally.

But last week Mpofu gave notice to appeal the award, arguing Mutimutema had no jurisdiction to hear the matter despite that the former Mines minister unsuccessfully sought to have the case deferred a number of times claiming his legal team was not ready.