ZCTU calls for protection of workers’ rights

Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President, Blake Mulala has called for greater accountability and protection of workers’ rights following the country’s 2026 general elections, while congratulating President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election. Mr Mulala has commended…

Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) President, Blake Mulala has called for greater accountability and protection of workers’ rights following the country’s 2026 general elections, while congratulating President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election.

Mr Mulala has commended Zambians and political parties for maintaining peace during the elections, urging all political players to respect the Constitution, the rule of law and the will of the people.

Speaking during a press briefing in Lusaka today, Mr Mulala said ZCTU’s monitoring across all Provincial centers showed that voting was generally peaceful and orderly, despite isolated cases of violence and misconduct.

He also commended the government for maintaining access to the internet during the elections, saying uninterrupted connectivity was critical to transparency and access to information.

Mr Mulala further praised election officials, security personnel, health workers, transport workers, media practitioners and other employees for working under difficult conditions to facilitate the electoral process.

He however, expressed concern over the death of a ZCTU member who was serving as polling staff in Matero, calling for a thorough investigation and prosecution of anyone found responsible.

Mr Mulala also warned employers against infringing on workers’ constitutional right to vote, particularly those who allegedly denied employees sufficient time to cast their ballots despite election day being declared a public holiday.

He specifically cited Hungry Lion and other employers, urging businesses operating in Zambia to comply with the law and respect workers’ rights.

Mr Mulala further encouraged workers who are not receiving overtime pay to report such cases to the labour movement for action.

Meanwhile, Mr Mulala has called on newly elected Members of Parliament to treat their offices as a public trust, urging them to remain accountable to the people who elected them.

He has also challenged citizens to hold their leaders accountable for the promises made during the election campaign.

Mr Mulala observed that the country should now move beyond the elections and focus on national unity, accountability and a new beginning for the country.