During a labour laws sensitisation meeting held at Kaziwiziwi and Mchenga Coal Mines in Rumphi, Labour authorities warned against forced unpaid leave, among other practices that breach labor laws.

Assistant Labour Officer for Rumphi District, Anthony Kalagho, has outlined that the district registered over 50 cases relating to breach of labour laws in the past three months. “Employers are sending the workers to unpaid leave of which it is not acceptable because if someone wants to go for unpaid leave it should be him or her to apply and not the employer initiating the process.” Kalagho said.

During the meetings, employees were drilled on the Employment Act, Workers Compensation Act among other labour related laws and policies. “As the labour office we want to embark on sensitisation meetings targeting both the employer and employee so that they follow the labour laws,” said Kalagho.