Shadowy characters are reportedly calling striking doctors and nurses threatening them to go back to work, The Standard reports. This was revealed by a Harare based nurse who spoke to the publication on condition of anonymity. The nurse said:
Some of our colleagues received phones calls from shadowy characters, who threatened them. Many are scared and because it has been too long, most will turn up for work.
A doctor who spoke to the publication confirmed the reports and said the government has resorted to using unorthodox methods to try and force striking health care workers to work:
It is unfortunate that our employer, instead of addressing our issues is now resorting to threats,” said the Harare-based doctor, who requested to remain anonymous. We are always in debt, always behind in rentals. Why did we waste all those years studying medicine? We should be looking after our parents, but instead they continue to feed us.
When contacted for comment, the president of the Senior Hospital Doctors’ Association Nyasha Nyaguse refused to either comment or deny the rumours. The New Health Minister VP Chiwenga is yet to meet with the unions representing the striking health care workers.
More: The Standard