Staff Writer
The Federation of Zimbabwe Educators Union (FOZEU) has requested for an urgent meeting with Zimbabwe Council of Public Sector Trade Unions (ZCPSTU) to discuss anticipated changes to the Public Service Act, holding a scenario mapping exercise to plan for the new act.
In a letter written by FOZEU Secretary General, Obert Masarure to ZCPSTU President, Cecilia Alexander, FOZEU said in the light of the above circumstances, there was a need to crucial collaborative engagement.
“On behalf of the Federation of Zimbabwe Educators Unions (FOZEU), we write to you to propose a crucial collaborative engagement between our organisations.As you are acutely aware, the anticipated enactment of a new Public Service Act represents a pivotal moment for public sector labour relations in Zimbabwe.
“This legislation holds significant potential to reshape the framework within which we engage with the employer, particularly concerning the fundamental right to genuine Collective Bargaining,” read the letter.
Masarure said while the past relationships between the two organisations were not cordial, there was need for a formation of a united front regarding the new Public Service Act.
“FOZEU acknowledges that historically, our respective organisations have held differing perspectives, particularly concerning the structure and functioning of the National Joint Negotiating Council (NJNC).
These divergent views, unfortunately, led to periods where our approaches were not aligned, hindering the potential for a unified public sector front.
“We believe the new Public Service Act presents a unique opportunity to move beyond these past differences. Its provisions are expected to address the core contradictions inherent in the previous framework, potentially establishing a clearer, more robust, and equitable platform for engagement.”
Added the letter:
“Given this transformative context, FOZEU strongly advocates for proactive and united strategizing. We are therefore requesting that the ZCPSTU, FOZEU and any other Union or Federation representing Public Sector workers engage in a dedicated Scenario Planning Meeting.
The primary objectives of this meeting would be:To collectively analyse the anticipated provisions of the new Public Service Act, focusing specifically on the mechanisms proposed for Collective Bargaining and dispute resolution.To develop a shared strategic agenda for engaging with the government/employer on the implementation and operationalization of the Act or opposing it if it fails to capture our aspirations.To identify potential employer strategies and collaboratively formulate counter-strategies to ensure workers’ interests are robustly defended and advanced.To explore mechanisms for enhanced coordination and communication between FOZEU, ZCPSTU and any other groupings moving forward, leveraging the new legislative environment to foster greater unity of purpose within the public sector labour movement.
“The core aim is to ensure that our unions are not reactive or fragmented, but rather strategically aligned and prepared to effectively navigate the new terrain. By planning scenarios and agreeing on key priorities in advance, we can avoid being strategically outmaneuvered by the employer and maximize the gains achievable for all public sector workers under this new Act.
FOZEU proposes that this critical meeting be held during November 2025. We are open to discussing a mutually convenient date, time, and venue that suits the ZCPSTU leadership.We believe that the potential benefits of this Act for genuine worker representation necessitate a fresh start and a collaborative approach.
“By setting aside past differences and focusing on the opportunities presented by this legislative shift, FOZEU and ZCPSTU can build a stronger, more effective force for advancing the rights and welfare of all public sector employees in Zimbabwe.
“We await your positive response and are ready to engage promptly to finalize the arrangements for this vital meeting. Please indicate your availability and preferred contact person to coordinate logistics.”
The Public Service Amendment Bill (H.B. 8, 2025), which is undergoing public consultations to strengthen public service efficiency and protect workers’ welfare. However, legal experts and labor activists warn that proposed amendments may strip civil servants of fundamental rights, particularly the right to strike over pay and conditions. Separately, the Public Service Commission (PSC) is conducting a service-wide job evaluation to align jobs with their correct grades and salaries.