Ruling UPND reacts, as KCM contractor, Master Mines, asks 300 workers to stay away from duty

Mines Workers Unions across the country have been urged to remain vigilant against misinformation concerning developments at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM) and Mopani.

Godfrey Beene, Chairperson for Labour and Social Security of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), denied claims that a contractor at KCM had terminated the employment of 1,500 workers.

Addressing the issue in a statement released in Lusaka on Wednesday, Beene said the falsehoods propagated by the opposition lack credibility, particularly concerning KCM subcontractors’ purported layoffs.

“The opposition’s desperate attempts to spread propaganda against the UPND government are baseless,” Beene said.

He noted that while the opposition may be aware of the truth, they are inclined to misinform the public, particularly mine workers in the Copperbelt Province.

Referring to social media reports alleging layoffs by Master Mines Services, a KCM contractor, Beene clarified that the contractor had only asked around 300 workers out of a workforce of 465 to refrain from work until KCM resumed full operations and resumed contractor payments.

Beene asserted that the UPND’s investments in Mopani Copper Mines and resolutions at KCM have disrupted the opposition’s campaign strategies for the 2026 general elections.

“Workers in the labour movement must shield their members from misinformation that could breed despair and discontent,” Beene advised.

He emphasized the government’s commitment to revitalizing the Copperbelt and ensuring employment opportunities upon full operationalization of the mines.

“Our focus remains unwavering despite the distractions posed by political adversaries,” Beene affirmed.

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