Niël Terblanché
The Namibia Transport and Allied Workers Union (Natau) is set to lead peaceful, nationwide demonstrations in protest against the reappointment of TransNamib’s Executive for Human Capital, Webster Gonzo today.
According to a statement by Natau’s acting general secretary Narina Pollmann last week, the demonstrations will be in response to growing discontent among TransNamib employees who have raised concerns over Gonzo’s management practices and alleged disregard for company policy.
“The dissatisfaction stems from the decision made by the TransNamib board to reappoint Gonzo, despite repeated appeals from employees,” she said.
Pollmann said workers feel their concerns have been ignored.
“The board’s resolve to proceed with his reemployment has only deepened the discontent and led employees to believe their voices are being disregarded,” she said.
Natau has been vocal about issues related to Gonzo’s tenure, citing persistent mismanagement, irregular employment practices, and a general lack of accountability.
The union claims that these concerns have been communicated through internal channels, including a formal engagement with TransNamib management on 7 October.
However, the management’s response was deemed unsatisfactory by the employees, prompting further action.
In response to the mounting pressure, TransNamib released a statement on Friday addressing the concerns raised by the union.
The company acknowledged Natau’s right to peaceful assembly, as enshrined in the Namibian Constitution, but defended its decision to reappoint Gonzo.
TransNamib stated that Gonzo has played an integral role in its operations, including the development of the Integrated Strategic Business Plan (ISBP), which is vital to its ongoing turnaround strategy.
Desmond van Jaarsveld, TransNamib’s chief executive officer, reinforced the strategic importance of Gonzo’s reappointment.
“The decision to retain the executive is strategically sound, ensuring that TransNamib’s operations remain stable as we prepare for the procurement of our new N$2.6 billion locomotives,” he said.
He added that removing a key executive during this critical phase could undermine the company’s recovery efforts.
Despite Van Jaarsveld’s defence, Natau continues to press for Gonzo’s immediate removal and a formal review of the reappointment decision.
The union has already engaged various stakeholders, including Minister of Finance and Public Enterprises Iipumbu Shiimi, in an attempt to resolve the matter.
However, dissatisfaction has grown following the minister’s decision to postpone a scheduled meeting with Natau to 4 November, a delay that has added to the frustration felt by employees.
Natau has assured the public that the demonstrations will remain lawful and peaceful.
“The union’s leadership has worked closely with law enforcement to ensure that the protests do not disrupt essential services or public safety,” Pollmann said.