Staff at Gamtel and Gamcel have raised urgent concerns over the ongoing restructuring process, citing delayed salaries, lack of transparency regarding financial allocations, and issues with employee benefits.

In a petition to the Minister for Communication and Digital Economy and other relevant authorities, workers are demanding immediate action to resolve these critical problems.

One of the key issues raised is the significant discrepancy in the World Bank-approved social package.

“While the Finance Minister claims $10 million was allocated, the Minister for Communication and Digital Economy has reported only $6.4 million,” the petitioners said.

Employees are questioning the use and transparency of these funds, particularly given the delayed payment of staff salaries and the disappearance of D13.4 million in staff contributions that were never deposited into the Credit Union account.

The petitioners also highlighted that salary payments, once made reliably on the 26th of each month, have been delayed multiple times.

“For instance, many staff received their May salaries only after the Eid festivities,” they said. The staff are urging authorities to ensure regular and timely payments.

Contract workers have also complained of discrimination. Senior management has allegedly claimed that contract staff are not eligible for the same social benefits as permanent employees.

However, internal inquiries suggest that contract staff with over six months of service should be entitled to the same benefits, prompting calls for fair treatment across the board.

The restructuring plan, which is set to conclude by October 2025, will see 706 staff members laid off, leaving only 350 employees.

Among those affected, 520 workers under the age of 55 have opted for voluntary departure, while 155 employees aged 55 to 59 are taking early retirement.

However, the petition claims that some staff were pressured into signing voluntary departure forms under the threat of receiving just six months’ salary if they refused.

The staff are calling for urgent intervention to ensure fairness and transparency in the restructuring process.

They are particularly concerned about the handling of the World Bank funds and the lack of clarity on how the full $10 million will be used for employee compensation.

Additional grievances include unprocessed credit union deductions, lack of medical insurance coverage during the restructuring, and poor working conditions.

The petitioners have warned that if their demands are not met, they may resort to legal action to secure their salaries and benefits.

By Adama Makasuba