Government Expresses Disappointment Over Koidu Limited’s Handling of Workforce Dispute

The Ministry of Employment, Labour, and Social Security (MELSS) has expressed deep disappointment over the actions of Koidu Limited’s management amid an ongoing industrial dispute with its workforce.

In a public notice issued on March 13, 2025, the Ministry criticized the company’s unilateral statements, which it described as an attempt to derail the negotiation process aimed at resolving the crisis.

According to the Ministry, it has been actively engaged in de-escalating tensions between Koidu Limited and its staff to prevent a full-blown industrial action.

A roadmap for resolving the impasse was submitted to the company, leading to virtual negotiations with its Board of Directors on March 6, 2025. Both parties initially expressed optimism about reaching an amicable settlement to restore industrial peace and ensure the smooth functioning of the company.

However, the Ministry accused Koidu Limited of undermining these efforts through “veiled threats and scare-mongering,” which it said were counterproductive to the resolution process. Additionally, the government highlighted concerns over the company’s persistent labeling of the ongoing strike as illegal, stating that such remarks disregard the workers’ right to union representation and peaceful protest.

The Ministry further alleged that Koidu Limited had “co-opted and captured” the union leadership, preventing them from addressing employee grievances. This, it said, emboldened the company to suppress trade union rights in direct violation of Section 12, Part III of the Employment Act 2023. The situation reportedly deteriorated to the point where employees were forced to withdraw from the union, a move that Koidu Limited allegedly resisted until recent developments forced it to acknowledge the decision.

Despite these challenges, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to resolving the impasse and urged Koidu Limited to cooperate fully in the ongoing negotiations. It warned that any further attempts to undermine the process could jeopardize the progress made so far.

The government reassured the company of its unwavering support in maintaining the safety and security of its personnel and operations. Meanwhile, Koidu Limited has been strongly encouraged to remain engaged in discussions to reach a swift and amicable settlement that would allow employees to return to work.