Staff Reporter

Parents across Zimbabwe have condemned Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) leader Obert Masaraure for what they described as a calculated attempt to destabilise the country’s education system.

This follows Masaraure’s controversial call yesterday for parents and teachers to stage pickets at schools on opening day, demanding what he termed "a fair salary" for educators.

Masaraure's statement, made via social media and quickly picked up by several platforms, drew immediate backlash from concerned parents, many of whom accuse the outspoken unionist of prioritisingpolitical posturing over the well-being of learners.

“This man is no longer a unionist; he is a political activist hiding behind the suffering of teachers. We are barely managing to pay school fees, buying uniforms and textbooks—only for someone to call for a boycott of lessons? It’s irresponsible and reckless,” said Caroline Mutsvairo, a mother of three from Shamva.

Other parents expressed dismay that such actions could derail the progress made by learners, especially those in examination classes.

"It’s painful. We’re doing everything we can to keep our children in school, and someone is calling for teachers not to teach? This is no longer about salaries, it’s about sabotaging the future of our children," said Peter Muchenje of Bindura.

Many parents also questioned the legitimacy and motives of ARTUZ, accusing the union of pushing political agendas at the expense of national development.

“Unions like ARTUZ are doing more harm than good. They must be banned if they continue undermining the education system. We want solutions, not drama," said Rudo Sibanda, a parent in Waterfalls, Harare.

Some parents pointed to the improving economic environment and Government efforts to improve teachers’ remuneration, arguing that dialogue and patience, not protests, were the way forward.

“Everyone wants better salaries, but there is a way to engage constructively. We can’t keep using our children’s education as a bargaining chip,” said Bernard Muswere of Chitungwiza.

Masaraure’s call also drew concern from school authorities and local education officials, who fear that such disruptions could set a dangerous precedent.

"Our learners are the ones who suffer the most. We urge all stakeholders to engage through proper channels," said a school head who requested anonymity.

As the new school term approaches, all eyes will be on whether Masaraure’s call gains traction or the broader society will reject what many now see as an attempt to politicise education at a critical time.