Member of Parliament for the Sefwi Wiawso Constituency, Kofi Benteh Afful, has stepped in to address concerns arising from a reported sit-down strike by workers of John Bitar Company Limited in Sefwi Dwenase in the Western North Region.
The intervention followed reports that workers of the company had embarked on industrial action over concerns relating to their welfare and working conditions.
Recognizing the important role the timber company plays in providing employment opportunities and contributing to the local economy, Kofi Benteh Afful swiftly visited the company to gain first-hand information on the situation and help facilitate a peaceful resolution.
Upon his arrival, the Member of Parliament held separate and joint engagements with the company’s management, union representatives, and the general workforce.
The discussions were aimed at identifying the root causes of the impasse and finding practical solutions that would address the concerns of workers while ensuring the smooth operation of the company.
During the meeting, workers openly presented their grievances and highlighted issues they believe require urgent attention, including salaries, company transport (bus), protective equipment, and other safety-related concerns at the workplace.
Kofi Benteh Afful listened to the concerns raised and assured the workers of his commitment to supporting efforts aimed at resolving the challenges through constructive engagement and mutual understanding.
He stressed the importance of maintaining open communication channels between management and employees, noting that dialogue remains the most effective means of addressing workplace disputes.
According to him, preserving industrial harmony is essential not only for the welfare of workers but also for the long-term sustainability and growth of the company.
The MP further encouraged both parties to approach the matter with a spirit of cooperation and compromise, emphasizing that a peaceful resolution would be beneficial to workers, management, and the wider Sefwi Wiawso community.
He noted that the company serves as a major source of livelihood for many families and contributes significantly to economic activities within the municipality.
Kofi Benteh Afful reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with both management and workers to ensure that their concerns are addressed fairly and promptly.
The workers expressed appreciation to the Member of Parliament for his swift intervention, describing his presence as timely and reassuring, and commending his commitment to ensuring that their concerns are heard and addressed.
