Buchanan — Workers employed by WBHO, a subcontractor for ArcelorMittal Liberia, have initiated a "go-slow" protest and disengaged from the company's operations. This action is in response to what they claim are poor working conditions and unfair labor practices.
Report by Elton W. Tiah, Contributor
The workers have raised several grievances, including unpaid overtime, lack of a structured salary system, inadequate food allowances, failure to pay other allowances, and non-compliance with statutory leave entitlements.
According to the workers, these issues have been repeatedly brought to the attention of management but have allegedly gone unresolved.
In their protest, the workers have collectively decided to reduce their work pace to disrupt operations and draw attention to their concerns. By disengaging from WBHO's operations, they intend to increase pressure on management to address their grievances.
Early Wednesday morning, July 17, 2024, some of the aggrieved workers stationed at compound #3 blocked the train track, temporarily halting ArcelorMittal Liberia's train operations. The blockade was later removed following intervention by their colleagues in Buchanan, facilitated by the Labor Commissioner and deputies.
The Labor Commissioner has taken note of the workers' grievances and initiated an investigation into the matter.