Five Liberian contractors, primarily women employed by Much Better Trading Incorporated (China Mall Liberia), have been terminated and subsequently handed over to law enforcement authorities for alleged theft. The accused include Matherline Domilah, a cashier, and Jackerlyne Wreh, a chef attendance officer, both currently detained at Zone 8 Police Station in Paynesville. Two other employees, Mamie Sheriff and Cecelia Toweh, were reportedly forced to resign due to the allegations. This incident has ignited a wave of protests by social justice activists who condemn the dismissals and detentions as unlawful and a violation of the workers’ rights. The activists further allege a pattern of labor rights abuses by China Mall Liberia, including unlawful suspensions, illegal contract terminations, and exploitative labor practices.
The protestors, gathering at the China Mall Liberia premises, have called upon Liberian authorities, including the Ministry of Labor, the Liberia National Police, and civil society organizations, to intervene and ensure justice for the accused workers. Cyrus Kennedy, a prominent social justice activist, argues that the detentions are a pretext for illegal contract terminations and a means of suppressing dissent against exploitative working conditions. Kennedy and other activists allege a broader pattern of misconduct by China Mall Liberia, including sexual harassment of female employees and coercion of confessions from detained workers. These claims depict a troubling picture of systemic labor rights violations and disregard for due process within the company.
China Mall Liberia’s management, however, vehemently denies the accusations of wrongful detention. Nyema Klon Bruce, the General Manager, asserts that the employees were caught in the act of theft, with CCTV footage serving as irrefutable evidence presented to the authorities. Bruce insists that the company’s policy dictates immediate dismissal for any form of theft, and that the matter is now in the hands of law enforcement. He emphasizes that the company followed due diligence by reviewing CCTV footage before taking action, and that the dismissals were justified based on clear evidence of wrongdoing. This stark contrast in narratives highlights the complex nature of the situation and the need for a thorough and impartial investigation.
The termination letters issued to the contractors, obtained by the NEW DAWN, cite “gross misconduct” as the reason for termination. The letters specifically accuse the employees of stealing company goods, an act deemed a serious breach of trust and a violation of company policy as outlined in the employee handbook. While the company maintains its stance on the legitimacy of the dismissals, the protestors remain unconvinced, raising questions about the authenticity of the evidence and the overall fairness of the process. This contentious situation underscores the importance of transparency and due process in handling workplace disputes, especially those involving allegations of theft and misconduct.
This incident has brought to the forefront concerns regarding labor rights protections in Liberia and the power dynamics between foreign-owned companies and local employees. The allegations against China Mall Liberia, if substantiated, paint a concerning picture of a corporate environment where workers are vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. The demands of the protestors for a thorough and independent investigation highlight the need for greater oversight and accountability mechanisms to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair labor practices. Furthermore, this incident highlights the vital role that civil society organizations play in advocating for worker rights and holding corporations accountable.
The ongoing investigation into the allegations against both the accused employees and China Mall Liberia is crucial. The outcome of this investigation will have significant implications for all parties involved, setting a precedent for future labor disputes in Liberia. It will also be a litmus test for the effectiveness of Liberia’s labor laws and the capacity of its institutions to enforce them. Moreover, it will send a message to foreign companies operating in Liberia regarding their responsibilities towards their employees and the importance of adhering to local laws and respecting labor rights. The protests and the ensuing investigation underscore the ongoing struggle for fair labor practices in Liberia and the importance of upholding the rights and dignity of all workers.
