Windhoek: Nampharm employees staged a peaceful demonstration in Windhoek on Monday over the withdrawal of benefits, including medical aid and the 14th cheque, as well as the alleged continued denial of their right to join trade unions. In a petition handed over to Nampharm Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Frederik Van der Walt, the employees stated that despite sending a letter in July 2025, they have not received a formal response from the company.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the petition is submitted in good faith and in the spirit of seeking genuine resolution and improved dialogue with management. However, the memorandum issued on 29 July 2025, announcing the removal of the 14th cheque, has further worsened staff morale and eroded trust in the company's commitment to fair and transparent employment practices, the petition reads.

Employees highlighted additional concerns they want addressed, including an alleged lack of transparency in the salary structure, absence of salary increments, no medical aid contributions, delayed confirmation letters, and the need for recognition of the union of their choice. 'We remain committed to the success and growth of Nampharm, but we cannot continue working in an environment that disregards our welfare and voices. We therefore demand that management acknowledge receipt of this petition and schedule a meeting with employee representatives and our union within seven days to find amicable solutions,' it further states.

The petition also raises concerns about a hostile and intimidating work environment, biased appointments, and the hiring of external candidates without internal advertisement. 'We respectfully urge management to treat these issues with the seriousness they deserve and to initiate a transparent, inclusive, and time-bound process to resolve them,' it concludes.

Efforts to get comment from Nampharm were unsuccessful.