Despite a labour court ruling in favour of the Namibia Football Association (NFA) in the protracted legal battle with the former Brave Gladiators coach over the non-payment of his earnings, Woody Jacobs has pledged to persevere in his quest to receive his remaining N$105 000.
In June this year, the NFA settled with Jacobs for N$115 000 in an out-of-court agreement. From the association’s perspective, the dispute has been resolved, but Jacobs has different plans.
In a recent labour court ruling, the case was dismissed and removed from
the court roll because the Labour Commissioner lacked jurisdiction over the matter.
The document also reveals that Jacobs received a settlement amount from the NFA, but he appears to dispute this.
“This ruling pertains to the dispute between Nicholaas Woody Jacobs and the NFA. The applicant initiated proceedings for unfair dismissal, outstanding
payment and breach of the employment contract against the respondent in the Labour Commissioner’s office under Section 86 of the Labour Act, Act 11 of 2007,” the statement read.
“On 23 June 2023, a settlement agreement was signed by both parties. During the conciliation meeting, the respondent raised preliminary concerns, arguing that the two parties had signed a full and final settlement agreement, totalling N$115 000. The settlement agreement resolved all claims, and the respondent argued that the Labour Commissioner’s office lacked jurisdiction to adjudicate the matter,” the letter continued.
Meanwhile, Jacobs acknowledged receiving the letter but contended that
the matter had been unfairly handled.
He intends to seek justice in this
matter.
“I have seen the letter, and the court
has made its position clear. The
responsibility now rests on me to take the necessary steps. However, I will not let the matter rest. The arbitrator’s handling of the situation was highly questionable, but I will report her actions,” Jacobs stated.
This matter dates back to
when the Normalisation Committee, led by chairperson Bisey Uirab, terminated Jacobs’ contract in 2022, despite verbal assurances of a contract renewal from the former secretary general, Franco Cosmos.
– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na