WORKERS at the Komsberg grape farm went on strike on Monday demanding the removal of the farm’s general manager, Jannie Thiart.
A striking farm worker who wished not to be named told over the phone that the workers will not return to work until Thiart is removed.
“We have a serious problem with the general manager as he does not respect us and we will only go back to work once he is gone,” the worker said.
He said over 100 striking workers on Monday camped in front of the company offices in the presence of a police officer from the Ariamsvlei police station.
“The strike is peaceful and we will come to the office every day until Thiart is gone,” he said.
The strike comes after the recent heavy flooding at the farm. A three-year old child was swept away by strong river currents during that flood while workers’ homes made from reeds were also washed away.
The boy is still missing nearly two weeks after the incident.
In the aftermath of the flood, Swapo Party //Karas regional coordinator Matheus Mumbala accused Thiart of abandoning the workers in “their hour of need”.
He demanded that the South African manager “packs and goes” and called for his work permit to be revoked. Thiart dismissed the accusations.
The farm management could not be reached throughout Monday.
–Nampa
In an age of information overload, Sunrise is The Namibian’s morning briefing, delivered at 6h00 from Monday to Friday. It offers a curated rundown of the most important stories from the past 24 hours – occasionally with a light, witty touch. It’s an essential way to stay informed. Subscribe and join our newsletter community.
The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!
