MASVINGO - Internationally acclaimed civic rights defender Reverend Jesse Jackson from the US will today grace the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) Workers’ Day’s celebrations at Gwanzura Stadium in the capital Jackson is expected to address thousands of workers at the event.

ZCTU secretary-general Japhet Moyo told the Daily News that the prominent rights advocate, who is already in the country, will deliver a solidarity message at the commemorations.

“I can confirm to you that Rev Jackson will grace our occasion of the Workers’ Day commemorations and will deliver a solidarity message to thousands of workers,” said Moyo.

Moyo said the ZCTU leadership was due to have a meeting with Jackson last night to share their experiences in dealing with civil and workers’ rights issues in the country.

Jackson, now 72, came through South Africa where he  received a national prestigious award a few days ago.

Meanwhile, police in Masvingo have made a sudden U-turn to lift a ZCTU march ban in Masvingo for the same commemorations to be held at Mucheke Stadium, after the workers body had dragged them to the High Court.

Last week, police in Masvingo banned the march after ZCTU southern region officials had applied for permission to lead a procession from the city centre to Mucheke Stadium as part of the activities to mark workers’ day. - Godfrey Mtimba