University of Zimbabwe Accused of Intimidating Union Leaders Through Disciplinary Measures
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The University of Zimbabwe (UZ) has come under fire for allegedly using disciplinary processes to silence union leaders advocating for better salaries for lecturers. This follows the suspension of several members of the Association of University Teachers (AUT), including its president Phillemon Munyaradzi Chamburuka and union leaders Borncase Mwakorera, Obvious Vengeyi, Justin Tandire, and Munyaradzi Gwisai.
In a statement issued on 10 April 2025, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) expressed solidarity with the suspended AUT leaders, accusing UZ management, led by Vice Chancellor Paul Mapfumo, of attempting to suppress legitimate labour concerns. “These educators are being persecuted not for misconduct—but for courageously organising and demanding fair wages that reflect the dignity of their labour,” ARTUZ stated.
The union condemned the suspensions as an attack on workers’ rights, academic freedom, and the constitutional right to freedom of association. ARTUZ criticised UZ management for failing to engage meaningfully with AUT’s demand for the restoration of pre-October 2018 salaries pegged at US$2,500, instead opting to “weaponise disciplinary processes to intimidate and punish union leaders.”
“The demand for living wages is not riotous—it is righteous,” ARTUZ declared, adding that the balloting exercise held by AUT reflected democratic principles rather than disruption. The union called on UZ authorities to reverse the suspensions and engage in good faith negotiations with AUT.
ARTUZ also appealed to the Higher and Tertiary Education Ministry to intervene and safeguard the rights of educators. “Education cannot thrive in an environment where educators are punished for demanding fair treatment. This attack on AUT is an attack on all educators across the country,” the union emphasised.
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