Elezo Libanda
Katima Mulilo 27 July – Salary negotiations between the government and the bargaining unions have reached a deadlock, resulting in the issuance of a certificate for an unresolved dispute.
More than 100 000 civil servants are preparing to vote on what could be the largest industrial action in the country since Independence.
The government had earlier indicated there was no money for civil servants’ salary increments with the last time civil servants got a pay rise being 2016.
During his last state of nation address, (SONA) president Hage Geingob informed the disgruntled civil servants that there was no money for salary increments.
If the strikes happen it will disrupt essential services such as scheduled medical operations at government hospitals and the collection of chronic medication such as high blood pressure and ARVs.
“Contacted for comment the spokesperson for the ministry of health and social services Walters Kamaya said the ministry awaits the results of the voting which will start tomorrow.
He could not be drawn into saying what would happen if nurses opted to go on strike, adding that labour laws will be applied as stipulated by the Labour Act, and the rule of no work no pay will be applied.
Education Minister Anna Nghipondoka yesterday urged civil servants, specifically teachers to act rationally and not only consider their needs but also consider those of the country at large.
