Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) says it will repeal the Statutory Instrument signed by the PF Government increasing the retirement age from 55 years to 65 years once it forms government.
FDD Spokesperson Antonio Mwanza in a statement issued today says the decision by the PF Government to unilaterally increase the retirement age is null and void as it contradicts the constitutional provision that all public service workers are free to retire upon reaching the age of 55 years.
Mr Mwanza says the decision to increase the retirement age is irrational as it does not take into account crucial social and economic realities obtaining on the Zambia labour industry.
He states that it beats common sense to put 65 years as retirement age when the life expectancy in Zambia is below 48 years.
Mr Mwanza adds that Zambia has a very young population with over 80% of the entire population being the age of 45 years, wondering when the old will create room for young people to find jobs if the retirement age is pushed to 65 years.
He says for the country to move forward there is need to allow for the infusion of young blood in the labour system to allow for fresh ideas, innovation and the drive of the younger generation to take root.
Mr Mwanza further states that it is only right that people should be given an opportunity to retire while they still have some energy and drive so that they can enjoy the fruits of their labour and be given an opportunity to venture in other endeavors of their choices.