MANAGER, SUFIAWU OFFICIAL CLASH IN FINCORP STRIKE

NHLANGANO – The strike action embarked upon by Swaziland Development Finance Corporation (FINCORP) workers almost took a disturbing turn in Nhlangano yesterday when management attempted to chase away picketing workers from the company premises.

FINCORP workers engaged on an indefinite strike yesterday emanating from disagreement over a clause in the proposed Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Code, which does not allow employees to conduct private business, while in the employ of the entity.

The height of the action at the Nhlangano Branch of the financial services facility was when a member of management came out, at around 9am, to ask the protesting workers to move away from the premises.
He informed union representatives that he had come to relay a message from senior management, whom he said, felt the striking workers were disturbing clients by conducting their action in front of the offices. He suggested that they go to the nearby road to conduct their picket, something which the workers found to be ridiculous.

They vehemently refused to his plea and continued picketing in front of their workplace. An argument ensued between the manager and the Swaziland Financial Institutions and Allied Workers Union (SUFIAWU) Secretary General, Jabu Shiba, over the instruction from management.

 Shiba argued that the workers were exercising their right to picket in front of the premises, saying the road which he was directing them to would pose a danger and further cause chaos with motorists.
The manager was rebuffed by the workers and his quest somehow failed as he was later seen going back into the office.

Meanwhile, the workers continued hoisting placards, some of which likened the treatment meted by their employer as slavery. The row over the contentious clause dates back to June last year.
Negotiations over the issue hit a deadlock over the duration of the week, prompting the workers to engage in the industrial action that commenced yesterday in all branches countrywide, including its subsidiary, First Finance.
The disgruntled workers believe the actions of their employer, in relation to the clause, were tantamount to an attack on their fundamental rights, as enshrined in the country’s Constitution.

They cited Section 32 (1) of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Swaziland of 2005, which guarantees the right to practise a profession and to carry on any lawful occupation, trade or business.
“This is absurd, and we cannot allow it to happen. The Constitution is clear about this and why should we subject it to the approval of the employer.

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