Shoprite Tsumeb closed by community members

Trading at Shoprite’s Tsumeb branch was halted by community members Tuesday morning when they joined the striking employees of the shop in their demands for better remuneration.

The angry community members said they decided to shut down the business activities of Shoprite as it is allegedly failing to look after its workers. They were also dissatisfied with the fact that seasonal workers have taken over the duties of the striking workers.

Representative of the Namibian Food and Allied Workers Union (Nafau), Festus Shilombuuelwa said the shop was closed around 11h00. All customers who were inside the shop were forced out by community members, as were some of the employees.

“This is a legal strike and Shoprite should abide by the rule of law. It should not allow seasonal workers inside the shop to perform the duties of the striking workers,” he said.

Shilombuuelwa said 111 employees work for Shoprite Tsumeb, of which 65 are on strike.

He further explained that the employees have been striking for nearly three weeks now, adding that the strike will continue until their demands are met.

The workers are demanding a salary increment of N$ 600, transport allowance of N$ 500, a housing benefit of N$ 450, and a minimum wage for all employees of N$ 2 500 instead of the N$ 1 200 they currently receive per month, said Shilombuuelwa.

Members of the Namibian Police Force (NamPol) were joined by security guards in maintaining order while Shoprite’s doors remained closed. The shop was still closed by later afternoon on Tuesday. - Nampa