“We Work, Not Politic”

Sinkala insists union serves the members, not political interests

By Francis Maingaila 

Lusaka, Zambia24 - (Sunday, July 21, 2025) — The Basic Education Teachers Union of Zambia (BETUZ) has strongly refuted allegations of political alignment, maintaining that it remains a professional and non-partisan body solely committed to the welfare of teachers.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka, BETUZ Secretary General Henry Sinkala said the union had not, and would not, engage with any political party, as suggested in recent remarks referencing the President’s concern over possible union-political affiliations.

“We want to make it very clear—BETUZ has not held any meetings with any political party,” Sinkala said. “If anyone is masquerading as a BETUZ member to engage in politics, they are doing so without our authority. We are a professional body that serves teachers—not politicians.”

Sinkala reaffirmed BETUZ’s strong support for the education reforms undertaken by the New Dawn government, describing them as “historic and transformative.” He cited the recruitment of over 50,000 teachers in less than four years, the implementation of the free education policy, and improvements in school infrastructure as clear evidence of the government’s commitment to the sector.

“These reforms are not just numbers. They are life-changing and have reduced workloads, improved classroom learning, and brought dignity back to the teaching profession,” he said.

He noted that BETUZ has been an active stakeholder in policy implementation and continues to work closely with government institutions to promote quality education.

In response to a wave of misinformation circulating online, Sinkala revealed that BETUZ has reported several cases of cyberbullying and defamation to law enforcement under the Cyber Security and Cyber Crimes Act.

“We will not allow falsehoods and cyber misconduct to derail our work. Those behind these acts must be identified, prosecuted, and held accountable,” he stated.

Sinkala highlighted BETUZ’s efforts to support its members beyond advocacy. These include BETUZ Financial Services offering loans at 17 percent per annum; monthly assistance programs for teachers in financial distress; a union-owned lab coat and uniform factory creating jobs and supplying members; and partnerships with institutions like LSB to offer low-interest education loans.

“No other union in Zambia gives back to its members like BETUZ,” Sinkala claimed. “We are service-driven and results-oriented.”

He urged union members to remain united, ignore political propaganda, and focus on the professional values of the organization.

“We work, we don’t politic,” he said. “This is the only government that has done so much for the education sector in such a short time. BETUZ will continue supporting what works for our teachers and learners.”

He emphasized that any support the union offers is based on performance and merit, not partisanship.

“We supported the call for teacher recruitment before 2021, and the New Dawn government responded with action, not excuses. That deserves recognition—not silence.”

Sinkala concluded by assuring the public and teachers across the country that BETUZ remains committed to professionalism, integrity, and teacher welfare.

“Our mandate is clear. We are here to defend the interests of our members and support every initiative that strengthens Zambia’s education system. Nothing more. Nothing less.”