Nationalise Mopani and CEC

Tue, 29 Aug 2017 10:54:30 +0000

Dear Editor,

The Government has two choices over the Mopani Saga.

It can either order Zesco to supply full power and save production and jobs or simply take over the entire mine and save jobs but incur the wrath of the international business community.

Starving the mine of power is not the answer because it shows recklessness and lack of foresight and also annoys the local people who are frustrated by the situation.

The problems are all man-made unlike the drought which brought a serious deficit of power. This time it is human beings deliberately switching off machines to force the other to pay.

In my view, the decision to increase electricity tariffs is final. There should be no debate of any kind except perhaps in the manner the increase and the arrears should be paid.

Short of taking over the mine or indeed the Copperbelt Energy Corporation, the government has very little power to dictate terms to ensure that the measures that Mopani is taking are reversed.

Please remember that without power the mine cannot work and without producing there is no way employment will be kept.

These are very simple and logical things that must be borne in mind as decisions are being taken regarding the mines. It should be remembered also that Mopani is owned by a foreign consortium which can leave Zambia at any time while the political influence remains with Zambians who will be judging the government for many years to come.

This situation requires bold and decisive measures that will bring an end this very painful situation.

If the need arises, give Mopani full power then begin the process of removing them from Zambia. This can be done by legal means if they refuse to honour economic demands. Nobody in his right mind will refuse to pay full cost recovery. This is done everywhere in the world.

Mathias Chella.