Govt directs LCM to pay workers full salaries

Chief Government Spokesperson Chishimba Kambwili

Government has directed Luanshya Copper Mines (LCM) to immediately pay their workers full salaries as opposed to paying them K900 each.

Yesterday, miners from Chinese owned Luanshya Copper Mines protested after receiving K900 as salaries after being put on forced leave last month.

The mining firm’s Baluba shaft was put under care and maintenance about two months ago due to power deficit the mining firm is experiencing, which has forced it to put 1,640 workers on forced leave.

But Chief Government Spokesperson Chishimba Kambwili says the mining firm will be responsible should there be any loss of life as a result of the protest by the miners.

Mr. Kambwili has described the paying of miners K900 by the mine company as illegal.

He says it seems the owners of the LCM are becoming arrogant by doing things that are illegal.

Mr. Kambwili states that the poor management at the mining firm led to the miners’ riotous behavior because they receive low salaries.

The Chief Government Spokesperson has warned that government will not allow the current situation at LCM where the company has spared about 800 Chinese workers and sending more Zambians on force leave.