By Own Correspondent

MDC President Douglas Mwonzora has implored politicians to stay away from workers issues arguing the terrain deserves to be depoliticized and left to prop up workers’ rights.

The involvement of political parties in the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has been a complex and evolving issue. While ZCTU has historically been a strong advocate for workers' rights and has played a significant role in Zimbabwe's political landscape, its relationship with political parties has been characterized by both cooperation and conflict. 

Speaking to The Worker on the sidelines of the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) organized May 1 event, the MDC leader reiterated the need for an apolitical federation.

He said  the MDC came from the labour movement, the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions and at a  personal level, his first employment was the Legal Advisor  of the ZCTU.

“This is a very, very important day. The workers worldwide are under siege. In particular, workers in Zimbabwe are under siege. There is massive unemployment, which has weakened the labour movement. There is capital flight and there is migration of labor when people are moving from this country to other countries to be further exploited by unscrupulous employers.

“So our message to the labour movement is that it must remain united. We are aware of the fragmentation within the labour movement. This will further weaken them. It must remain united. Labour issues must be completely depoliticized. Politicians must leave the labour unions to do their work,” he said.