By Christian Appleton
The Cavalla Rubber Plantation (CRC) in Maryland County, Liberia, faces growing controversy over recent employee redundancies, with accusations of unfair treatment and a lack of transparency leveled against the company and the union. The layoffs, impacting 37 employees, come amidst financial struggles exacerbated by the global COVID-19 pandemic, raising concerns about the economic impact on the local community.
Mulbah Koizena Dorbor, a long-time driver at CRC, has become a vocal critic of the redundancy process, particularly his own dismissal. Dorbor, who worked for the plantation for over a decade and was recognized as a top-performing driver in 2021, claims his termination was mishandled and unjust. He argues that he should have been given the opportunity to discuss his contributions to the company before being placed on the redundancy list, highlighting his experience with organizations like UNHCR and Liberia Logistics Service. “I am not the least among the drivers,” Dorbor stated. “When it comes to providing accurate reports, I can challenge anyone.”
Dorbor alleges he was the only employee laid off from the technical department, raising questions about the selection criteria. He also recounted an incident where he followed company policy after an employee fell from a vehicle, only to later face legal action, allegedly due to the company’s failure to properly represent him. Furthermore, Dorbor accuses the union supervisor, Paul Dweh, of targeting him due to past personal differences, including a previous election contest. He claims Dweh and others retaliated by accusing him of conducting business outside work hours, an accusation he finds ironic given the HR department’s own business activities.
Dorbor believes CRC has targeted active and productive employees while overlooking those who are sick or unable to work. He views the redundancy process as disrespectful and has called for intervention from the Labor Commission and other stakeholders. “I’ve given 10 years of my life to this company, and now I’m being treated this way,” Dorbor lamented. “It’s not fair.”
Paul W. Dweh, President of GAAWUL Local 3 and union leader, acknowledged the company’s financial difficulties since the pandemic, stating that CRC initially planned to lay off 59 employees in October 2022. He asserted that the redundancy process adhered to the Decent Work Act of 2015 and that affected workers were notified in August 2024. Dweh emphasized the company’s need to take such steps to remain operational, despite the distress it caused. He also pointed out that similar redundancies occurred under previous leadership and expressed disappointment with the current county leadership, particularly Representative Anthony F. Williams, for their lack of support.
The layoffs have sparked broader community concern, with many fearing the economic fallout. Calls are growing for a more transparent redundancy process and greater accountability from CRC management and the union. The Labor Commission and other stakeholders are urged to intervene to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair procedures. The situation remains fluid, and the voices of affected employees like Dorbor are expected to continue to be heard.
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