By Njodzeka Danhatu
The Senior Divisional Officer (SDO) of Fako, Viang Mekala, has condemned what he describes as dictatorial behavior by some business leaders in his division.
Mr Viang made the remarks on Thursday, May 1, while addressing journalists during celebrations marking the 139th edition of International Labour Day in Limbe, South West Region of Cameroon.
The SDO stressed the need for open communication and dialogue among people in the workplace. He pointed out that the lack of dialogue continues to challenge work environments in his area.
“They need to always meet to discuss the interests of the company,” Viang said. “Without dialogue, we cannot be sure of the results.”
He noted that certain working conditions under his jurisdiction are not conducive to promoting social dialogue or decent work.
According to him, the conduct of some company heads undermines the wellbeing of their workers.
“Some patrons of some companies are behaving like dictators. They have no respect for the employees,” Viang stated.
He lamented that due to high unemployment, many workers endure exploitation and mistreatment without protest.
They stay because if they leave, they won’t have another job, and that explains the shabby treatment from employers.
Although the administration is aware of these situations, Viang Mekala noted that they cannot simply sanction employers.
Instead, he advocated for education and consensus-building.
“The state will continue to sensitise them. It is not a question of sanctioning or going to court. It is a question of sensitisation and gentlemen agreement,” he said.
He said economic peace depends on fair treatment of workers and when employees can’t have their arrears or salaries or cater for their families, there is no peace.
The SDO noted that social dialogue and decent work is the cornerstone for healthy work relations.
Trade Unions Lament Poor Working Conditions
Representing trade unions in Fako, Ojong Pius did not mince words when he highlighted the plight of workers.
He decried poor performance output, lack of refresher courses, and unpaid overtime as major challenges.
According to Ojong, many workers go for years without salaries, and those retiring often struggle to access their benefits.
He also decried cases where social insurance (CNPS) deductions are made from workers’ salaries but not sent to CNPS.
“How then could we be talking about social dialogue, decent work and peace in Cameroon when married people with family engagements, the same as some of us sitting here, go without salaries for this period of time? Children are driven from schools and can’t afford medical bills or house rents. Based on these, we are therefore appealing to the authorities in place to revisit the formula of checks and balances,” he said.
He further decried CNPS for its sharp penalties, saying they contribute to the trauma of many workers, particularly after retirement.
“Some die without these benefits,” he stated.
Truck Pushers and Fruit Sellers Steal the Show
The Labour Day celebration, held along Manga Williams Avenue in Limbe, attracted thousands of participants, including workers from government ministries, parastatals, private institutions, and informal sectors.
A highlight of the event was the colorful and coordinated participation of informal workers—taxi drivers, truck pushers, fruit and vegetable vendors—whose jobs are often undervalued.
Their presence in the march past served as a powerful reminder of their vital role in the country’s development.
Over 380 individuals were awarded medals in recognition of their contributions at work.
