Mwenda blames Kabuswe over Lumwana Mine contaminated water
PAUL Kabuswe, the Mines and Minerals Development Minister should publicly apologise for the alleged negligence and maltreatment of miners at Lumwana Mine in Kalumbila, an opposition leader has demanded.
Mr Kasonde Mwenda, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) president said in a statement yesterday that workers at the mine had made a shocking revelation about their health as a result of alleged Uranium pollution in drinking water.
Mr Mwenda said the government's indifference and collusion with mine owners had put lives at risk, as evidenced by the mine's admission last November to contaminating the water with uranium.
"Despite this admission, the government has failed to take decisive action. Not only has the Ministry of Mines prematurely closed the case, but the mining company has also terminated a union leader who advocated for medical examinations of affected workers" he said.
Mr Mwenda said as a result, the EFF was demanding for among others the immediate and comprehensive medical tests for all Lumwana Mine workers exposed to the uranium-contaminated water.
He also said the mine should justly compensate all those whose health had been compromised as a result of the alleged contamination of water with uranium.
Mr Mwenda demanded for the imposition of a substantial penalty on the mining company, coupled with a mandate for thorough contamination cleanup.
"We also demand for swift reinstatement of the fired employee, a union leader, who sought justice for the affected workers. The Mines Minister must publicly apologise for the negligence and maltreatment of miners at Lumwana Mine," he said.
Mr Mwenda said EFF stood firm in its commitment to safeguarding the well-being and rights of workers in Zambia.
"It is imperative that the government prioritises the health and livelihoods of its citizens over corporate interests. The Economic Freedom Fighters will not tolerate the blatant disregard for the safety and dignity of our fellow Zambians," he said.