Landless People's Movement parliamentarian Utaara Mootu has urged the Namibian parliament to investigate the working and living conditions of security guards in the country. Mootu expressed concerns about the welfare of these workers, who protect various institutions, including schools, hospitals, businesses, homes, and government institutions. She emphasized that despite their crucial role, many security guards struggle to secure decent livelihoods due to inadequate wages, job insecurity, and limited benefits.
Mootu tabled a motion in the National Assembly, calling for a comprehensive investigation into the working conditions of security guards. The proposed investigation would focus on several key areas, including wages, job security, benefits, occupational safety, social protection, unfair dismissal, and delays in accessing labour justice. The MP questioned the effectiveness of a 2017 collective agreement aimed at addressing the exploitation of security officers. The agreement provided for labour inspections, penalties for non-compliance, and protection against victimisation.
The 2017 collective agreement also committed the parties to discussing housing and transport allowances and pension contributions. However, Mootu asked what happened to these commitments nearly a decade later. She expressed concerns about the lack of progress in improving the working conditions of security guards. Mootu's motion seeks to establish whether companies receiving government and private security contracts comply with Namibia's labour laws.
The proposed investigation would also examine complaints before the labour commissioner, delays in resolving disputes, unfair dismissals, and victimisation. Additionally, it would look into workplace injuries and deaths, access to social security, employees' compensation, pensions, and health benefits. Mootu emphasized that security guards work long hours, often at night, over weekends, and on public holidays, yet many continue to struggle financially.
Mootu's concerns about the welfare of security guards are rooted in their critical role in protecting Namibia's institutions and citizens. She asked, "Security guards protect Namibia every day. But who protects them?" The MP's motion highlights the need for improved working conditions and better protection for security guards. The Namibian parliament will need to consider Mootu's proposal and determine the next steps.
The investigation would provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by security guards and help identify potential solutions. If the parliament approves the motion, it could lead to improved working conditions, better wages, and enhanced benefits for security guards. This, in turn, could improve the overall quality of security services in Namibia.
The outcome of the proposed investigation and any subsequent actions will be closely watched by security guards, labour unions, and other stakeholders. Mootu's initiative has brought attention to the often-overlooked challenges faced by security guards in Namibia.
Key points
- Landless People's Movement MP Utaara Mootu calls for parliamentary investigation into security guards' working conditions
- Proposed investigation to focus on wages, job security, benefits, occupational safety, and social protection
- 2017 collective agreement aimed at addressing exploitation of security officers remains largely unimplemented
