The Amalgamated Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (Artuz) has reported that 16 of its members have appeared in court as they are ‘being persecuted for demanding a living wage from the ungrateful’ Zimbabwe Government of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The sixteen teachers, who include Artuz president Obert Masaraure were arrested in January for participating in an unsanctioned gathering with the intention to cause public violence. They were remanded to April 12.
Zimbabwe’s teachers have been up in arms with their employer for failing to meet their demands of the restoration of the pre-October 2018 monthly salary of at least US$540.
“16 of our members appeared in court today being persecuted for demanding a living wage from the ungrateful gvt of @edmnangagwa Remanded 12 April They travel long distances to report to police stations weekly.We thank @MutasaPeter& @ZIBAWUteam for solidarity #SaveOurEducationZw”, said Artuz in a Tuesday morning tweet
During their protest in January which resulted in the arrest and detention of the sixteen, the teachers held banners which, among other things, read:
“You (Government) said 2022 we will be happy #USD540 salary”
“Say no bond slavery No, No …;”
“Artuz, fighting for restoration of classroom dignity #EDUVOTE.”
“Teachers are demanding US$540 salaries”.
Zwnews
