Namibia Economic Freedom Fighters (NEFF) deputy leader Kalimbo Iipumbu has welcomed the Ministry of Labour, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation’s investigation of the Rani Group of Companies.
Iipumbu said this in a statement on Tuesday.
The investigation comes after the suspension of 84 employees, following a protest at Oshakati about working conditions, among others.
After the suspension, social activist and NEFF member Michael Amushelelo attempted to close down a Rani supermarket in Windhoek while calling for the reinstatement of the suspended employees.
Amushelelo was subsequently allegedly confronted by an unknown armed man.
Rani Group of Companies managing director Ali Dharani has said the man is not known to the company.
Executive director of labour Aune Mudjanima released a statement on 22 December, saying the ministry has taken note of the conflict between the company and its employees.
“A similar situation happened early this year at the same company at Rundu, and the ministry had to intervene and mediate between the parties to prevent the dismissal of workers,” Mudjanima said.
She said the group of companies makes use of the services of a private employment agency in accordance with the law.
However, that does not prevent employees from obtaining benefits and conditions prescribed by law.
“The ministry would like to assure the nation and particularly the affected workers that it will embark on labour inspections and investigations, and will take appropriate action should there be any findings contrary to the applicable laws,” Mudjanima said.
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