Minister of Justice and Labour Relations Wise Immanuel has suspended the Voluntary Separation (VS) scheme at Sinomine Tsumeb Smelter.

The decision followed hours of negotiations that failed to produce a consensus between the company’s management and the Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN).

This was despite the minister’s directive that the two parties resolve the impasse through social dialogue.

After nearly six hours of discussions, no resolution was reached.

Immanuel then invoked Section 80 of the Labour Act, directing the Labour Commissioner to appoint an independent conciliator to mediate the dispute.

Section 80 grants the minister powers to intervene in disputes or potential industrial conflicts, particularly those posing a threat to the national interest.

It also allows for the appointment of a tripartite panel, in consultation with the Labour Advisory Council, to investigate and recommend further action if necessary.

Meanwhile, the MUN has hailed the suspension as a major victory for workers, arguing that the process lacked consultation and undermined the union’s role in collective dismissals.