TODAY marks exactly four weeks since government doctors declared incapacitation as a result of poor living conditions, amidst indications that there could be no hope in sight to the end of the industrial action should government fail to meet their demands.
By Michael Gwarisa
In a statement, Zimbabwe Hospital Doctors Association (ZHDA) acting Secretary General, Dr Tawanda Zvakada said doctors were committed to resuming work and saving lives but the situation on the ground was no longer workable.
Several engagements have been made with the employer to come and address this impasse as a matter of emergency, but outcomes have been fruitless. We recommenced engagements with the Health Services Board (HSB) on Wednesday 25 September.
“A written submission of what would be necessary to capacitate us was made. We suggested the review of our on-call allowance at the prevailing interbanck rate for that month, which is a solution we consider to be viable and suitable for the current economic trends,” said Dr Zvakada.
He however added that they could not disclose to the public the exact amount they proposed at the moment but however indicated that they would not accept anything below a five figure salary.
“With grave concern, we noted that the employer is circulating falsified attendance statistics. It is sad that the system is trying too hard to “patch” what it should fix. ZHDA remains committed to fighting for the fair wages and a better working conditions for all Zimbabwean doctors.
“We would like to make it very clear that as doctors, we are not striking but we are incapacitated. The will is there but the means to execute them does not exist.”
Meanwhile, Dr Peter Magombeyi, the ZHDA acting president is currently in South Africa where he is receiving treatment following his abduction.
