Union victimisation at Marula primary school

Workers at Marula Primary School in Matabeleland have accused school authorities of bullying and harassment over their decision to join the National Education Union of Zimbabwe (NEUZ).

Ancillary staff say they are routinely shouted at, threatened, and subjected to what they describe as a "terrifying atmosphere" designed to break their union membership. They allege that at the start of every school term, they are forced into bizarre interviews where they are asked demeaning questions such as, "Who are you?" despite having served at the school for years.

Union members claim they are singled out for humiliation whenever the NEUZ communicates with the school, leading some to quit the union out of fear. Others believe the treatment is intended to push them into resigning without benefits. "The aim is to frustrate us until we leave, so they don't have to pay us what we're owed," said one distraught worker.

Staff further allege that school funds are being diverted to pay a private lawyer tasked with advising the administration on how to handle them.

Headmistress Mrs. Sitshengisiwe Mutandabari denied the allegations, referring all questions to the District Schools Inspector. NEUZ administrator Ms. Jemina Mateko urged the affected employees to report their cases formally, promising union support through official labour tribunals.

The accusations raise constitutional concerns, as Zimbabwe's supreme law guarantees all workers the right to freely join trade unions without victimisation.