Africa-Press – Namibia. A number of politicians are trying to capitalize on the struggles of Namibian workers and derail their trade unions. This is according to Minister of Labour, Industrial Relations, and Employment Creation Utoni Nujoma, who was speaking during the official opening of the 12th National Congress being held in Ongwediva.
Nujoma said that these self-styled leaders of workers have not tried to organize workers into trade unions but prefer to put on colourful costumes and stage media events for their interests. “I noted that they have never expressed an interest in representing the majority of workers of any employer, in handling their daily grievances or in engaging in collective bargaining,” he said.
He added that their method of working is to try to get workers to take illegal action to disrupt employer establishments in front of the eye of a camera while exposing workers to possible loss of employment for misconduct.
Nujoma indicated that the politicians or self-styled worker’s leaders have seized upon various labour disputes, including lawful strikes, as a means to bring attention to themselves for political reasons. He stressed that many are using workers only for the purpose of advancing their political careers and canvassing for future votes.
More than ever, Nujoma said they need to strengthen their unions, expand union representation, and utilize or strengthen the procedures afforded by law that protect workers and support their rights.
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