By GIDEON NYENDWA
GOVERNMENT has engaged Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) over their decision to dismiss protesting miners as a disciplinary action.
Minister of Mines and Minerals Paul Kabuswe said he was still in talks with management of MCM and he would issue a comprehensive statement once the talks were over.
MCM management had decided to take stern disciplinary action against those who participated in the protest over the government’s delay to approve the payment of US$15 million second batch benefits which they had worked for under Glencore PLC.
Three mine workers unions had reportedly engaged MCM to ensure that no miner was dismissed following the protest last week.
Mineworkers Union of Zambia (MUZ) president Joseph Chewe together with colleagues from the National Union of Miners and Allied Workers and United Mineworkers Union of Zambia said they had a fruitful meeting with MCM management.
Mr. Chewe said at a press briefing at Katilungu House in Kitwe on Thursday that the MCM management had agreed to extend the amnesty and the matter would be handled case by case.
Irate MCM employees protested last week over the government’s delay to approve the payment of US$15 million second batch of benefits which they had worked for under Glencore PLC.
The giant mining company had already secured the money to pay the miners, but it was waiting for the government’s approval before it could start paying the miners.
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