Namibia Security Guard and Watchmen’s Union has threatened that its members will embark on a strike later this month.
This, they said, will be determined by whether the company, Eagle Night Watch Security, fails to respond to demands of unfair labour practices.
In a recent statement, the Namibia Security Guard and Watchmen’s Union (NSGWU) alleged unfair labour practices, intimidation, prolonged probation periods and non-compliance with minimum wages at the Windhoek branch.
“Incidents involving the intimidation of security guards and their compulsory deduction for transportation and other forms of unsavoury practices have been reported to us by our members, more specifically at the Windhoek branch. Many employees complain of signing employment contracts that last for three to six months probation – but once this period is completed, the company simply gets new employees,” reads the statement.
The union further alleged that Eagle Night Watch Security intimidates and victimises its employees through this process or makes work unbearable.
It further noted the guards complained about a remuneration rate that is still at N$7 per hour, despite N$8.75 being indicated on their pay slips: “They are been forced to be deducted a huge amount of transport fees despite being underpaid. Uniforms are being extremely deducted at a higher amount up to N$1 800, instead of N$300 deposit as per the government Gazette, and old employees have been demoted from N$10 to N$7 per hour”.
The union added its members pay for social security but they are not registered.
Thus, the union demands the employer allow members to have union representation and stop with the compulsory deductions of transport, uniforms and sleeping while on duty.
The union also demands the company stops victimising employees, register workers for social security and increase the hourly rate from N$7 to N$15 per hour.
When contacted for comment, Eagle Night Watch Security refused to comment on the matter.
In Namibia, many security companies are accused of mistreating their employees, particularly when it comes to salaries.
This is after the recent Shilimela Security, followed by this week’s G4S security guards, engaged in a strike, calling for a better working environment.
However, the Security Association of Namibia (SAN) on Monday in a statement condemned the illegal strike by some stakeholders within the security industry that continue to take place at some of its member’s premises.
SAN president Dhiginina Uuataapama commented on the minimum wage disputes, saying the association is continuously engaging with the Wage Commission.
“SAN still awaits feedback and guidance from the Wage Commission and the labour ministry on the prescribed minimum wage for the security industry going forward,” said Uuataapama.
The association pleaded with its members and stakeholders to continue working together, and not to allow any form of political influence, as negotiations and discussions are still ongoing to address several issues that continue to impact the sector.
Uuataapama noted the association also pleads for intervention from relevant stakeholders and the labour ministry, pertaining to illegal strikes to be brought to book, claiming this instigates anarchy and possible riots within the country.
– mndjavera@nepc.com.na