Harare, May 13, 2011- The Chamber of Mines wants only 26 percent to be given to indigenous Zimbabweans instead of the proposed 51 percent, its president Victor Gapare said on Thursday.

Gapare said: “What we are against is the ways you want things being done...Our members do not oppose this Law but the thresh hold and time frame set for compliance.”

The mining body representative argues that the six months period given by the government for its members to comply is illegal and has warned government of legal action if the period is not changed.

Indigenous minister Saviour Kasukuwere accused the chamber of Mines for ambushing him. He told Gapare during tea break: “Gushungo if you think that by taking us to courts...we will reverse the process, and then forget it. Why have you chosen to take the legal route other than engaging us? That is not going to work.”

The meeting for mines representatives and members of parliament was held at the Wild Geese lodge. The Chamber of Mines invited a legal practitioner at the meeting who highlighted the legal weaknesses of the Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment Act before telling parliamentarians and politicians present to quickly revise it.

The indigenous law has sparked controversy with some investors withdrawing their investment plans and others pulling out of the country.