UNZALARU demand Swift Action on NAPSA Waiver and Labor Reforms

... Tambatamba Says the Credibility of Any Union Depends on the Quality of Leadership Elected to Manage Its Affairs

November 21, 2024

By Francis Maingaila

The University of Zambia Lecturers' and Researchers' Union (UNZALARU) has called on the government to act swiftly in resolving ongoing issues related to the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA) penalty waiver and delays caused by the Evolvements Commission.

Outgoing UNZALARU president Prof. Andrew Phiri highlighted that although progress was made with confirmation in November that the framework for the waiver was ready, immediate action is needed to finalize agreements with NAPSA and implement the waiver without further delay. 

He expressed concern about the slow processing of NAPSA penalty waivers, noting that the Minister had promised in 2023 that a penalty waiver framework would be established. 

While acknowledging the start of the process, he stressed that it needs to move faster, as union members, burdened by unpaid contributions, view the waiver as essential for financial relief and long-term security.

Phiri also raised concerns about the impact of the Evolvements Commission, which has introduced bureaucratic layers complicating the harmonization of the Industry Validation Act and slowing negotiations between unions and management. 

He noted that unions seek a more streamlined approach to resolving disputes and negotiations efficiently, citing the delay in receiving a response from management to demands submitted in June. 

Phiri urged the Minister to use her influence to expedite the resolution of these issues, stressing that addressing bureaucratic delays is crucial to ensuring the timely completion of collective agreements and preventing unnecessary extensions.

Phiri expressed his gratitude for the ongoing support from the Minister of Labour and Social Security, acknowledging her consistent participation in union activities, including at key moments such as the launch of the UNZALARU secretariat. 

The event, attended by representatives from other unions such as Mulungushi, Copperbelt University (CBU), and Choma, as well as staff from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, highlighted the importance of solidarity within the union and the need for continued cooperation. 

Phiri reflected on the difficult years between 2016 and 2020, during which the union faced significant challenges, and credited the Labour Commission for mediating between the union and the university administration.

Phiri emphasized the importance of democratic elections within the union, urging members to elect leaders who can guide the organization effectively in the coming term.

 He warned of the potential consequences if the balance between the government, unions, and university administration is disrupted, stressing that it would affect not just the government or unions but the staff and students who rely on the stability of the university.

Minister Brenda Tambatamba, addressing the 7th UNZALARU Quadrennial Congress, emphasized that the credibility of any union depends on the quality of leadership elected to manage its affairs. 

She highlighted the importance of effective leadership, unity, and inclusivity, commending the outgoing National Executive Committee for laying a solid foundation for the incoming leadership. 

Tambatamba celebrated the election of a female president as a step toward gender equality in leadership roles and urged delegates to elect leaders with integrity and vision to shape the union’s future.

Tambatamba also expressed concern over the 2021 Education Act amendments, which she believes have weakened unions and diminished their bargaining power. 

She called for a revision of these amendments to restore unions' roles in decision-making processes, and she criticized recent attempts by university management to introduce unfair two-tier contracts for employees performing the same roles.

Tambatamba stressed the need for equal partnership between unions and management in negotiations and continued dialogue to address labor issues.

Furthermore, she discussed the government’s efforts to address national debt and ensure the financial sustainability of public institutions, emphasizing that improving education through free access at all levels is a top priority for the government.

 Tambatamba reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the union’s future direction and urged a transparent and collaborative approach to ensure the success of these initiatives.