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Chinese should respect Zimbabwe labour laws
Movement for Democratic Change (MDC)
May 17, 2012

The labour-based MDC Party continues to fight for a broad based upliftment of the people by ensuring that everyone has decent shelter, food, education, health care facilities and jobs. However, MDC notes with condemnation the abuse instituted on the people of Zimbabwe by Chinese nationals who own businesses mainly in retail, construction, mining and confectionery.

The abuses range from long working hours for Zimbabweans, paltry wages, assaulting workers, disrespect of health and safety regulations, non-remittal of pension contributions and union dues and prohibiting workers from participating in trade union activities.

MDC demands that such labour law violations be stopped forthwith.

The government should bring the matter to the attention of the Chinese government so that it encourages its nationals to abide by the laws of this country. Should this abuse continue, the MDC calls upon every law abiding citizen to boycott Chinese products until they learn to treat workers with the respect and dignity.

Over the last five years, there has been an influx of Chinese businesses of all forms in Zimbabwe. Instead of aiding development and growth of the economy, the Chinese have brought nothing new except exploiting the locals and overshadowing them.

The understanding of most Zimbabweans was that China is a socialist country which promotes the well-being of the poor but we see the darkest side of capitalism being practiced.

As a social democratic Party, the MDC subscribes to the promotion of a strong human rights abiding community seeking to protect Zimbabwe's socially marginalised citizens.

Zimbabweans deserve respect and dignity much as we have shown hospitality to the Chinese.

Hon. Paurina Mpariwa

MDC Secretary for Labour

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