The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has launched investigations into alleged labour law violations at Zamfresh and Sunshare following the circulation of a social media video showing a female employee allegedly being assaulted at the workplace.
Labour Commissioner Givens Muntengwa paid an impromptu visit to the two companies after the video emerged, reportedly depicting a 23-year-old cashier, Ruth Banda, being assaulted by a Chinese national after she was questioned for forging company invoices and stealing K14, 000.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Muntengwa condemned the alleged assault, stating that the Ministry does not tolerate any form of violence or abuse in the workplace.
He emphasised that allegations of misconduct or theft must be addressed through lawful and established procedures and not through acts that infringe on workers’ rights.
Mr Muntengwa further expressed concern over a number of labour irregularities observed at the companies, including the absence of proper protective work suits, failure to issue employment contracts and the payment of uniform wages to workers despite them performing different roles.
He disclosed that the companies have been fined K160, 000 for administrative noncompliance, citing the failure to issue payslips and place workers on formal contracts.
He also directed management to settle all outstanding arrears owed to employees, including overtime payments and wage adjustments to meet the statutory minimum wage.
Meanwhile, Zamfresh General Consultant, Karen Kayuni, acknowledged that workers should not be subjected to assault while on duty and assured the Ministry of cooperation.
Mr Muntengwa has since reaffirmed that investigations will continue.
“Workers should not be subjected to assault while on duty” Implying it’s OK to assault them when they are off duty.
And how did the reporter conclude that the worker was “being assaulted by a Chinese national”
Did he check this accused’s NRC records?