TransNamib workers based in the ||Kharas Region say the suspension of rail services in the country is affecting them psychologically.
They expressed these sentiments at Keetmanshoop during a nationwide peaceful demonstration organised by the Namibia Transport and Allied Workers Union.
TransNamib is the only company that provides rail services in the country.
Over the years, several passenger trains, including locomotives, derailed, some involving fatal accidents.
This has resulted in most passenger trains in the country being grounded. The workers say that they have started being involved in unproductive activities due to no work.
Some of the workers who spoke to nbc News at the Keetmanshoop railway station say that the suspension of rail services in the country continues to negatively affect them.
They also joined other TransNamib workers across the country who have had peaceful demonstrations to express their dissatisfaction with the reappointment of TransNamib’s Human Capital Executive.
In a petition seen by nbc News, the workers strongly oppose the reappointment of the HR executive due to unresolved grievances from the past.
They say the appointment reflects management’s disregard for employee welfare.
The workers in the petition demanded a response from TransNamib within seven working days.
In a media statement, TransNamib said that the appointment of any executive management member follows a comprehensive review process.
The statement further states that the decision to retain the executive is strategically sound, ensuring that TransNamib’s operations remain stable as the company prepares for the procurement of new locomotives valued at N$2.6 billion.