Basotho workers employed in firms in Mandeni, Durban and Mandeni residents met yesterday in a meeting aimed at improving relations and promoting peaceful coexistence at workplaces and within the community.
The meeting was convened by an Umkhonto Wesizwe (MK) representative, Mr Siyabonga Dubazana, following concerns raised by both Basotho workers and Mandeni residents regarding their working conditions and relations in local firms.
During the discussion, a Mandeni resident, Mrs Mamdletshe Khuzwayo, asked the representative to clarify why some Basotho workers are reportedly arrested and later released by the police. She further sought clarification on situations where some Basotho supervisors allegedly flee during police raids, leaving work unattended. She also questioned why Basotho supervisors are placed in the same firms where some Mandeni residents reportedly mistreat them.
Some Mandeni residents supported Mrs Khuzwayo, stating that they are willing to improve relations with Basotho workers provided that firms avoid overcrowding them in workplaces. They suggested that the number of Basotho workers in firms should be lower than that of Mandeni residents.
A Mosotho woman living and working in Mandeni, Mrs Mareabetsoe Mosethe, also raised concerns during the meeting. She said Basotho workers are in Mandeni to work and support their families but some residents treat them as if they are there to replace local workers.
She further asked the representative for clarification regarding reports of Basotho workers being pursued by police despite possessing valid work permits.
Responding to the concerns, Mr Dubazana said all matters relating to the law are handled according to legal procedures and that the government of Lesotho is aware of developments affecting its citizens working in South Africa.
“I encourage firms to appoint both Basotho and Mandeni residents as supervisors to avoid misunderstandings. There are situations where we can intervene and others where we cannot,” he said.
He advised Basotho workers to ensure that they always have valid passports and work permits.
“The meeting we are having today does not mean that having valid documents is no longer necessary. However, we will not tolerate the abuse of workers who possess valid permits. We will also use our association to address these matters as we have received reports that some firm’s owners allegedly pay police to conduct raids,” he added.
The meeting was held following complaints from both Mandeni residents and Basotho workers regarding their working conditions in firms.