Chambishi Smelter sacks 500 unionised workers

The Lusaka Times reports a story that, if true, will surely run and run. I will be amazed if the Zambian Government don't come under massive pressure from the opposition Patrtiotic Front and trade unions to pressure the company to reverse this decision.

The paper reports that Chambeshi Copper Smelter has dismissed all the 500 unionised employees who went on strike recently demanding improved conditions of service.

Copper Smelter Company Secretary, Sun Chuanqi, confirmed the sacking of the Zambian Workers.

And a check by znbc news at the construction site in chambeshi found CCS officials waiting for the workers to collect their dismissal letters.

Kalulushi District Commissioner, Joshua Mutisa regretted the workers action.

However the sacked workers have not been to collect their dismissal letters.

Mr. Mutisa said the workers behaviour deserve the kind of punishment which has been meted on them.

Zambian workers, Tuesday fought with their Chinese colleagues at the smelter and damaged company property.