Medical workers cautioned about rogue unions

The Medical and Allied Trade Workers Union of Zimbabwe (MATWUZ) has raised alarm over the rise of "rogue" unions in the private medical sector, accusing them of destabilising workplaces and contributing to retrenchments.

Darlington Chitedega, the union's general secretary, said the proliferation of unverified trade unions was duping workers and putting their jobs at risk.

"Although we staunchly support trade unionism, we are concerned that certain rogue unions are causing instability, leading to job losses," Chitedega said.

"We urge all employees to safeguard their interests by seeking verification from the National Employment Council for the Medical and Allied Industry or the Minister of Labour before aligning with any union. This step is crucial for protecting their employment."

His remarks come amid reports that a leading Harare hospital has begun retrenching 50 workers, allegedly targeting unionised employees.

Chitedega further criticised recent amendments to the Labour Act, arguing that they have opened the door to multiple "sprouting, unverified" unions that fragment the workforce.

"We now have four or five unions within a single industry, competing to represent a small number of employees. This creates discord and weakens collective bargaining. Urgent action is needed," he said.

He added that MATWUZ would engage like-minded unions and national federations, including the Zimbabwe Federation of Trade Unions and the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions, to push for legislative reforms.

"The goal is to prevent the current chaos and protect employees within our industry and the broader labour fraternity. These are critical issues that must be addressed to ensure the effective protection of all employees," Chitedega said.