ZDF Raises Concerns Over KCM Leadership, Calls for Vedanta to Reevaluate
Concerns are mounting over the recent appointment of Malcolm Mewett as Chief Operations Officer (COO) at Konkola Copper Mines (KCM), one of Zambia’s largest mining enterprises.
According to Zambia Development Focus (ZDF), Mewett’s management style has already sparked unrest within the workforce, raising questions about Vedanta Resources’ leadership decisions.
Evanse Chota, Executive Director of ZDF, has issued a statement highlighting what he describes as Mewett’s blatant disregard for Zambia’s labor laws and his creation of a hostile work environment.
Reports from KCM suggest that Mewett has engaged in heavy-handed tactics, including the unjustified termination of senior staff without due compensation, further exacerbating tensions.
“This behavior not only violates local labor laws but also threatens to erode the trust and morale of KCM’s workforce,” Mr. Chota remarked. “The success of KCM hinges on a cooperative and supportive work environment, which seems to be under threat.”
ZDF’s statement emphasizes the historical challenges Vedanta faced in Zambia, leading to their previous expulsion from KCM, and warns that Mewett’s approach risks reigniting past hostilities.
As Zambia approaches its 2026 elections, Mr. Chota notes that the political climate will be crucial for the survival of foreign entities like Vedanta.
He urges Vedanta to align with the interests of the Zambian people and to reassess their leadership at KCM.
“Zambians will not tolerate actions that undermine our sovereignty or well-being,” Mr. Chota asserted. “Vedanta must show that they are our partners in development, not adversaries.”
