Trade Unions Leaders Accuse Justice Minister of Shielding Turkish ports operator over Labour Rights Violations

Somali Trade Unions (FESTU) has accused Justice Minister Abdulkadir Nur of shielding the Turkish company Favori from being held liable for alleged violation of labour and human rights….

FESTU said in a statement Wednesday the Minister had frustrated efforts to compel Favori which manages Aden Adde Airport to respect workers rights and honor its contractual obligations.

The trade union did not however make reference to any of the minister’s actions but noted he was working to undermine worker’s rights in the country.

“The Minister’s gross interference in labour relations between FAVORI LLC and workers, clearly demonstrates his lack of commitment to upholding Somalia’s laws as well as his lack of concern for the wellbeing and quality of life of Somali workers,” FESTU said.

It noted the minister ‘protecting an unscrupulous employer and frustrating a process designed to bring economic relief and increased morale to workers.’

“We consider this type of meddling by the Minister of Justice tantamount to corruption as it is an abuse of power, breaches the laws of the country and is deliberately attempting to reverse any gains workers have made,” FESTU Secretary General Omar Farouk said. “In this way, inequality, poverty and exploitation continue to flourish with impunity.”

Accusations have been labelled variously against Favori over alleged violation of labour rights and human rights. 

A leaked memo in September ordered employees to ‘stand up when a manager passes by’. FESTU has also previously accused Favori of denying employees their rights to join trade unions and bargain for their interests.