The Zimbabwe Federation of Trade Unions (ZFTU) has issued a public warning about an individual in Bulawayo falsely claiming to be one of its regional organisers and deceiving the public.
In a letter dated December 13, 2024, ZFTU Secretary General Kennias Shamuyarira condemned the actions of one Pardon Mangena, who is accused of criminal activities, including the theft of trust property amounting to US$5 100.
Mangena, who has allegedly misrepresented himself as the ZFTU regional organiser, has no affiliation with the federation or any of its member unions, Shamuyarira said.
The letter, addressed to the Public Prosecutor at the Bulawayo Magistrates Court, highlighted that Mangena’s actions not only breach ZFTU’s internal policies but also constitute a serious criminal offense under the law.
“Pardon Mangena is not part of our organisation and he is not the organising secretary of the ZFTU. As the Secretary General, I have authority and personal knowledge of all administrative matters related to the federation. We categorically state that this individual has never been an employee of the ZFTU or any of its affiliated unions,” Shamuyarira wrote.
“The actions and claims made by this individual are criminal and violate the principles of our labour centre. Pardon Mangena is nothing more than a bogus ‘trade union official’ who does not belong to any of our affiliates.”
The ZFTU Secretary General further clarified that the organisation’s records show no association with Mangena.
“The charges of theft of trust property amounting to US$5,100 are serious, and we trust the legal system will address this matter with the utmost seriousness it deserves,” Shamuyarira said.
“ZFTU and its legitimate affiliates are committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and transparency. We take these allegations seriously and condemn any actions that tarnish the image of trade unionism in Zimbabwe.”
Shamuyarira warned the public and workers to disregard any statements or actions made by Mangena or others working with him, stressing that they do not represent the ZFTU.
The federation remains committed to protecting its reputation and the interests of its affiliates and will take all necessary steps to address the situation.
“We urge workers and the public to avoid engaging with this individual and others who are not employees of the ZFTU,” Shamuyarira concluded.
The ZFTU has forwarded the letter to key stakeholders, including the Registrar of Labour, the Registrar of the Labour Court, and other relevant national authorities, urging them to take appropriate action regarding Mangena’s false claims and criminal charges.
Shamuyarira also encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities related to the misrepresentation of ZFTU personnel.
