PRWWUZ breathes fire over defamatory story …sues Masvingo Mirror and NECCS
The article, attributed to the National Employment Council for the Commercial Sectors (NECCS), accuses PRWWUZ officials of misleading employers and employees by claiming that NECCS is non-functional
The Progressive Retail and Wholesale Workers Union of Zimbabwe (PRWWUZ) has issued a strong rebuttal to allegations made in an article titled “Labour body raises alarm over bogus officials,” published by The Mirror Newspaper in March 2025 and disseminated via The Voice Online News WhatsApp channel and NewZimbabwe.com.
The article, attributed to the National Employment Council for the Commercial Sectors (NECCS), accuses PRWWUZ officials of misleading employers and employees by claiming that NECCS is non-functional.
In a statement released today, PRWWUZ General Secretary Phillip Mafundu categorically dismissed the claims as baseless and defamatory. He outlined the union’s position on the matter, emphasizing its integrity and commitment to fair labor practices.
PRWWUZ denies that its officials Jabulani Gwarazimba, Walter Taranhike, and another unnamed individual ever claimed that NECCS is non-functional. Mafundu described this accusation as a deliberate attempt to tarnish the union’s reputation.
“The article, attributed to the National Employment Council for the Commercial Sectors (NECCS), falsely alleges that PRWWUZ employees Jabulani Gwarazimba, Walter Taranhike, and another unnamed individual, are misleading employers and employees by claiming that the NECCS is non- functional.
“At no point have the named PRWWUZ officials stated that the NECCS is no longer functional. This claim is entirely fabricated and appears to be a deliberate attempt to tarnish the reputation of our dedicated union representatives,”charged Mafundu.
Contrary to the allegations, PRWWUZ highlighted its consistent involvement with NECCS in resolving labor disputes. This engagement underscores the union’s dedication to utilizing established industrial relations frameworks.
The union expressed disappointment that NECCS appears to have been drawn into internal union politics. PRWWUZ reaffirmed its status as a legally registered trade union focused on representing workers in Zimbabwe’s retail and wholesale sectors.
Meanhwile ,PRWWUZ is suing NECCS and The Mirror Newspaper over the defamatory falsehoods.
In a copy gleaned by this writer,through its lawyers,Tembani and Gomo Law Practice,the labour union is demanding US$60k in damages and will be taking the matter to court if both parties fail to comply within 7 days.
