Meatco employees handed over a petition to the company’s management on Thursday, demanding salary increases and raising concerns about mismanagement at the company.
Speaking on behalf of the employees, shop steward Joseph Kambala, who read the petition addressed to the interim chief executive Albertus Aochamub, said workers’ annual wage proposals are typically submitted in September for implementation purposes, but claimed this year’s process has stalled despite the matter being before the labour commissioner.
“If the company is ignoring our demands, the writing is on the wall as we will embark on indefinite industrial action,” Kambala said.
The employees further question why the company has not implemented increments despite reporting profits.
“The company declared a profit, but is failing to increase salaries,” he added.
The petition also raises concerns about the Meatco board, alleging a lack of confidence in its leadership and calling for its dismissal.
“We do not have confidence in the current board. They must be replaced immediately,” Kambala said.
The employees additionally criticised executive spending, questioning trips undertaken by senior officials.
“Given the financial constraints the business is facing, why did the board approve the interim chief executive and chief financial officer’s trip . . . at the company’s expense?” the petition reads.
Allegations of conflicts of interest were also raised regarding a dealership arrangement, with workers claiming: “Meatco is offering this client a 5% discount not offered to other marketing clients . . . we strongly believe the interim chief executive and chief financial officer are highly conflicted.”
Workers warned against the mismanagement of operations, particularly in the northern communal areas, and called for government intervention.
“There are concerns about unfair practices and the sustainability of employee benefits,” Kambala said.
The employees are also calling for a reasonable wage that increases with improved conditions of service and the cost of living, greater transparency, and investigations into management decisions.
They are urging the authorities to address their grievances, requesting a response by 30 April.
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