By Jenifer James
King News 19th Sept Juba – The initial court hearing for ten former employees of UAP Insurance took place in Juba, following their dismissal last year. This legal action was initiated by the National Staff Association of UAP, marking a pivotal moment in an ongoing dispute regarding employee treatment and wage inequalities within the company.
After the hearing on Wednesday, Marko Reech, the defense lawyer for the dismissed staff, voiced his frustration over the protracted legal process. “This has been ongoing since 2023, and we’ve sought resolution through various channels, including the Ministry of Labour, before reaching this court stage,” he said. Marko highlighted the difficulties faced by the employees, who have been striving for their rights in a climate they perceive as unjust.
The proceedings were adjourned when UAP’s legal team requested more time to prepare their case. “The judge agreed to the adjournment because the company’s lawyers were unprepared to proceed today,” Marko explained. The next court session has been set for September 26, 2024, leaving the affected employees uncertain about their futures.
This legal battle traces back to a strike by UAP staff in September 2023, during which employees demanded improved salaries and working conditions. “UAP terminated eleven employees in response to these protests,” Marko noted, shedding light on the consequences faced by those who spoke out. The central issue remains wage disparities, with national employees claiming they receive far less than their foreign colleagues in similar positions.
In a bid to resolve the situation, the Ministry of Labour intervened on October 6, 2023, instructing UAP to reinstate the unlawfully dismissed staff and consider proposed salary increases. However, UAP’s management has yet to comply. “Their failure to follow the Ministry’s directives has led to renewed calls for intervention from the union,” Marko remarked, highlighting the escalating tensions between employees and management.
In response to these challenges, the Union of National Staff Association at UAP (based at Equatoria Tower) has decided to take legal action against UAP Insurance South Sudan for defying the Ministry’s orders. A union representative stated, “This decision underscores our commitment to fighting for our rights and ensuring fair treatment for all staff.”
As the case unfolds, the future of UAP Insurance and its relationship with employees hangs in the balance. The upcoming court date will be critical not only for the terminated employees but also for broader issues of workplace fairness and equity within the organization. The outcome could set a significant precedent for labor rights in the region, underscoring the need for accountability in corporate practices.