The Employment Equity Commission (EEC) has summoned nine employers to face review hearings over alleged non-compliance with Namibia’s affirmative action laws, warning that continued violations could lead to criminal prosecution.
The hearings, scheduled for 13 and 14 October at the National Council in Windhoek, follow the disapproval of the employers’ affirmative action reports due to shortcomings in meeting statutory requirements.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations says under the Affirmative Action (Employment) Act of 1998, the review panel will examine the deficiencies and assess whether employers are making genuine efforts to promote fair and equitable employment.
“The EEC has begun identifying and formulating criminal charges against several employers for alleged contraventions under section 47 of the act,” reads the statement.
The commission says the hearings will provide an opportunity for mediation, but the panel has the power to issue final and binding orders.
The nine employers include the Ministry of Justice and Labour Relations, Kunene Regional Council, PricewaterhouseCoopers Namibia, Karibib Private School and Arandis Services.
The public hearings run from 09h00 to 12h30 daily and are open to the public.
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