Niël Terblanché
The Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) has strongly condemned what it describes as a calculated attempt by Swakop Uranium’s management to undermine the union’s independence and integrity.
Phillipus George Ampweya, the union’s general secretary, accused the company of engaging in union-busting activities that violate both the Namibian Labour Act and the fundamental principles of democratic industrial relations.
In a statement, Ampweya expressed grave concerns over Swakop Uranium’s alleged interference in the union’s internal processes, labelling it a direct attack on the union’s inherent organisational rights.
Ampweya claimed that by instructing the national structure on how to restructure the union at the branch level, the company interfered with the union’s internal processes.
He claimed that the company’s management strategy aims to undermine the MUN’s fundamental goal of protecting the rights and interests of its members.
“Attempting to capture the union through manipulation of certain union representatives betrays not only the workforce but also the core values of fairness, justice, and collective bargaining,” he said.
Ampweya stressed that such intimidation tactics would not be tolerated and he called on Swakop Uranium to immediately halt its anti-union activities and respect the union’s autonomy.
He urged sister unions, members, and allies to stand in solidarity with the MUN against these underhanded tactics, highlighting the importance of collective power in preserving and honouring workers’ rights.
He also demanded that Swakop Uranium commit to fair, open, and respectful labour relations in the future.
Ampweya stated that the Namibian Labour Act No. 11 of 2007 enshrines the rights of unions to operate freely without interference from employers, ensuring that workers can collectively bargain and organise.
“The union is bound to uphold these legal protections and safeguard the interests of its members in the face of corporate overreach,” he added.
Ampweya’s call for solidarity coincides with an internal power struggle within the MUN.
Swakop Uranium’s vice president of human resources, Patrick Chizabulyo, refuted the union’s claims and added that the statement by the general secretary does not have any substance.
Chizabulyo stated that the company cannot and will not involve itself with the internal matters of any workers’ union.
“Although we respect and encourage the processes of the union on its various levels, Swakop Uranium cannot be held accountable for the manner in which its employees vote for their union representatives or how the union applies its constitution,” he stated.
