ZCTU declares 2024 'annus horribilis' for workers, govt showdown looms

The Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has sharply criticized the government for what it describes as an "annus horribilis" for workers, outlining a series of grievances that have left the labor force struggling throughout 2024. In a statement released today, the ZCTU reflects on the year as one of continued hardships for Zimbabwe's workers, with no meaningful improvements to their conditions. The union has warned of a confrontational approach as it enters 2025.

ZCTU's statement highlighted a multitude of ongoing issues, including inadequate wages, spiraling inflation, a crumbling healthcare system, and the absence of serious consultations on key policy changes. The union expressed frustration with the government's handling of economic and social challenges, noting that these issues have had a devastating effect on the working population.

"The much-anticipated improvement to the plight of the working people did not materialize," the statement reads. "Instead, workers have been confronted with the absence of serious consultations on policies like the introduction of the Zig currency, unilateral devaluation of the currency, poverty wages, shocking price increases, and an overburdening taxation regime."

The ZCTU also condemned the state of Zimbabwe's healthcare and education systems, both of which have continued to deteriorate despite repeated promises of reform. It also expressed concern about the ongoing water and electricity shortages, which have crippled industrial production.

"Workers are struggling with wages that fail to meet the poverty datum line of over US$500, while facing skyrocketing inflation," the statement continued. "Meanwhile, the healthcare system remains a shadow of itself, and people continue to die from preventable diseases. The education system is in disarray, with teachers threatening industrial action over low pay."

Additionally, the ZCTU pointed out the high levels of unemployment, underemployment, and the ongoing brain drain in critical sectors like health, further exacerbating the economic crisis. The rise of informal employment and the collapse of key institutions were also highlighted as major concerns for the workforce.

The union expressed alarm over the government's proposed tax reforms, including the introduction of a Fast-Food Tax, Betting Tax, and Plastic Bag Tax, all of which are part of the government's 2025 fiscal policy. ZCTU warned that these taxes would only add to the economic burden on workers and further stifle the economy.

"The government's approach to taxation is a recipe for disaster," the ZCTU warned. "Excessive taxation could lead to evasion, widespread dissatisfaction, and even unrest. It could make Zimbabwe less competitive on the global stage, reduce foreign investment, and force skilled workers to leave for countries with more favorable tax policies."

The union also emphasized the negative impact of these taxes on individual freedoms, as high taxes limit disposable income and consumer choice. ZCTU vowed to resist these policies, urging workers to prepare for a fight in 2025.

"We are calling on workers to stand firm against this economic hemorrhage and to prepare for a year of confrontation," the statement concluded. "We will not accept policies that further impoverish the working people of Zimbabwe. The struggle for justice and fair treatment continues."

As Zimbabwe moves into 2025, the ZCTU's stark warning signals the possibility of significant industrial action and protests, as workers demand better wages, improved working conditions, and a fairer economic environment.