The workers are being led by workers committee leader, Munyaradzi Mugwisi, and represented by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions Regional Paralegal officer, Charles Chikozho.
According to letters of suspension received by each of them, Bata accused them of inciting a sit-in strike on June 12 at the company premises from 1015hrs to 1430hrs. They were also accused of disobeying lawful instructions, intimidating and threatening behaviour and sabotage. The workers are denying the charges.
According to the labour law, an employer may suspend an employee for a period not exceeding 14 working days as a precautionary measure in order to facilitate investigations.
“The employer in this case Bata, breached that employment code of conduct,” said Chikozho adding that up to now, the employees have not been called for a disciplinary hearing or heard anything from their company.
“We request your good office to intervene in this dispute which if the employer had acted in good faith, could have been resolved amicably,” Chikozho told the judge. Judge Takuva is expected to deliver judgement on the matter next month.
Post published in: News