Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The Southern African Center for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (SACCORD) has questioned the genuineness of the meetings President Edgar Lungu held on the Copperbelt with mining companies.
SACCORD says it does not understand why President Lungu can possibly start entertaining the idea of repossessing Mopani Copper Mines (MCM) a day after meeting mine owners if there was genuine dialogue.
Boniface Cheembe
Executive Director Boniface Cheembe says the signal that President Lungu has sent by asking MCM owners to surrender the mine to government if they have failed to run it, is a sign that government does not care about what is happening in the mining sector.
Mr. Cheembe notes that it is a fact that like any other sector of the economy, mining has been impacted negatively by the power deficit and poor performance of the Kwacha.
He has told Qfm News that SACCORD is of the considered view that as opposed to issuing threats, government should instead have a more caring attitude towards the Mines.
Mr. Cheembe says government should continue engaging with the Mines or any other sector in the economy that raises concerns that need its attention.
He adds that President Lungu should continue prioritizing dialogue on issues affecting the mining sector.