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The National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa (NUMSA) is on strike at CBI Electric in Vereeniging. CBI is an industrial goods and service group. This is because CBI refuses to give into our demands. They have created a hostile working environment where our members are frequently intimidated or victimized. The person leading this vicious attack against our members is the Human Resources Executive Director. We demand an independent investigation into the HR Director. We also demand that this investigation must be appointed in collaboration and agreement with NUMSA. The investigation must focus the allegations of victimization, racism and discrimination in the work place. We are also calling for the suspension of the HR Executive, pending the outcome of the independent investigation so that the investigator may operate freely and without interference.
 
We have been forced into resorting to this course of action because our attempts to resolve the dispute amicably have failed. The management team at CBI Electric steadfastly refuse to deal decisively with this executive, in spite of the fact that he has shown himself to be an obstacle to industrial peace.
 
It is unfortunate that the management team believe that protecting the abusive behavior of this executive, is more important than the general well-being of workers at the company. They are willing to risk losing profits in order to protect a rabid racist bully in the workplace.
 
Our members are resolute. They are determined to defend their rights and to do what is necessary in order to have dignity in the workplace. They have taken the courageous step to withdraw their labour. The strike began on Monday and continues at all CBI Plant operations in Vereeninging.
Aluta continua!

Issued by Numsa