NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper Kruah has declared the ongoing strike by AFCON workers illegal and called on them to immediately return to work.
“Strikes must be conducted lawfully,” the Minister emphasized, noting that while workers have the right to express grievances, such actions must be carried out in an orderly and legal manner.
The strike at AFCON’s facility stems from demands by former employees for overdue end-of-project payments, hardship allowances, and other benefits.
By: Kabina S. Kabah – kabinaskabah98@gmail.com
Minister Kruah expressed serious concern over the workers’ actions, warning that engaging in unauthorized strike activity could weaken otherwise legitimate claims. He encouraged the workers to properly document their complaints and submit them to the Labour Commissioner’s Office in their respective counties.
“If these claims are verified, the Ministry will compel management to address the issues. But we must first establish the facts,” he stated.
Acknowledging that many of the strikers are contract workers, the Minister pledged to review their contracts for possible violations, underscoring the importance of fair treatment in the dispute.
“No one should lose their rights, and we are committed to finding a resolution,” he affirmed.
The Labour Minister also called for calm and urged those still employed to resume work while channeling concerns through appropriate leadership and legal procedures. He stressed the need to notify the Ministry of Labour before undertaking any industrial action.
To ease tensions, Minister Kruah further urged ArcelorMittal Liberia to consider offering permanent employment opportunities to some former AFCON workers, reaffirming the government’s commitment to expanding job opportunities for Liberians as AFCON concludes its projects.
The Ministry of Labour says it remains committed to protecting workers’ rights while ensuring that grievance resolution follows established legal procedures.
