Gweru council's silent treatment on salaries leave...

Gweru council's silent treatment on salaries leaves workers in limbo

Runodada Witnesss

Zim Now Reporter

The City of Gweru is facing mounting criticism for its continued silence regarding the payment of December salaries to its employees. Workers are expressing growing frustration and uncertainty as the council repeatedly postpones meetings meant to address the issue, leaving families struggling to make ends meet.

Originally scheduled for the second week of February, a crucial meeting to discuss the salary situation was inexplicably pushed back to the third week. This delay prompted the Workers’ Committee to issue a seven-day ultimatum to the council, demanding clarity on the payment timeline. However, a source close to the committee, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that the council has yet to provide a satisfactory response.

"The Workers’ Committee is waiting for the upcoming meeting, and if they fail to give clarity, we will take it up from there," the source stated. "They don’t want to give the exact date of payment," the source added, expressing concern over the council's apparent reluctance to commit to a firm date.

ZimNow's attempts to obtain official comment from city authorities were met with a wall of resistance. Acting Chamber Secretary Marerwa refused to discuss the matter, stating, "I don’t discuss staff matters with strangers." Public Relations Officer Vimbai Chingwaramuse also declined to comment on employee affairs, limiting her purview to service delivery issues. She directed ZimNow to Town Clerk Mr. Churu, who in turn refused to comment, insisting that Ms. Chingwaramuse was the appropriate spokesperson.

The delayed salaries have plunged many workers into financial hardship. Employees who rent properties are reportedly falling into debt to cover rent and school fees. Adding to their woes, there are reports that the city council has failed to remit workers’ medical aid contributions, leaving them without healthcare coverage and vulnerable to unforeseen medical expenses.

Mayor Chivhoko, who oversees the council, was unavailable for comment.