Maravi

MUZ warns Zesco against proposed tariff increment

MUZ warns Zesco against proposed tariff increment
Written by Zumani Katasefa in Kitwe
Thursday, March 26, 2009 7:39:46 AM

MINE Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) secretary general Oswell Munyenyembe has warned that there will be trouble on the Copperbelt if Zesco Limited raises electricity tariffs by over 60 per cent.

In an interview yesterday, Munyenyembe said with the massive job losses being experienced in the province, people would not accept any upward adjustment in electricity tariffs.

"Our members from various mine industries have complained about Zesco's intentions to increase electricity tariffs. It is unfair for Zesco to make such a proposal; they should be aware of what is happening in the province," Munyenyembe said.

He said his union had decided to postpone salary negotiations with some mining firms such as Mopani Copper Mine (MCM) because of the current global financial crisis which had also brought about job losses in the country.

"We have had no good package; we have postponed our salary negotiations with Mopani until July this year," Munyenyembe said.

He said Zesco should not only be focused on making huge profits from the jobless Zambians but should first reorganise its operations.

"If they go ahead to increase the tariffs, there will be problems here (Copperbelt); Zesco should not only be focused on making profits; they should not take people for granted," he added.

Munyenyembe urged the government to urgently intervene before the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) approved Zescoís proposal to hike tariffs.

"Zesco should show cause why it should increase electricity tariffs," said Munyenyembe.

Labels: MUZ, OSWELL MUNYENYEMBE, ZESCO

posted by MrK @ 7:39 AM