After Three Days Strike Sierra Leone Broadcasting Company Workers Resume Work But…
Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC) headquarters at New England, Freetown came to a standstill on Monday this week when workers downed tools in protest against deplorable conditions of service.
The striking workers complained about late payment of salaries, wide salary disparity, gross maltreatment of especially junior workers, and other appalling conditions. The disgruntled staff accused their authorities of bagging fabulous monthly salaries while they receive pittances even though they do the bulk of the work. They cited that the directors earn from Le12-18 Million per month while other staff members receive far less.
The protesting members of staff further alleged that some of their authorities have almost wrecked the corporation by rampant embezzlement and misappropriation of funds. The workers recalled that during the transition period when salaries were paid by the United Nations Peace Building Fund, salaries were paid promptly but that since June, 2012, when government temporarily took over the payment of salaries, they have not been receiving salaries on time.
The SLBC strike left many radio listeners and television viewers across the country in news blackout. However, after a meeting yesterday with the Minister of Information, Alpha Kanu and his deputy, Theo Nicol and the Permanent Secretary, held at the minister’s office at the Youyi Building, the aggrieved workers resolved to resume work today after their March salaries have been paid into their various accounts.
In the meeting, it was agreed that the workers should catalogue their grievances and forward them to the minister for prompt action.
By Francis Gberie
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