- More than 360 workers from Black Impala and Cofi say they face unfair pay cuts, fines and unpaid severance packages.
- The Human Rights Commission has demanded payment for workers and may ask the liquor board to revoke Mthembu’s licences.
The Economic Freedom Fighters in the Eastern Cape have turned their focus on restaurant owner Lloyd Mthembu, accusing him of exploiting his staff and treating them “like rubbish.”
Mthembu owns Black Impala Restaurant and Tshisanyama and is also a partner at Cofi Gqeberha. His restaurants are well-known across Nelson Mandela Bay, but workers say life behind the scenes is a nightmare.
At Cofi, which closed suddenly in February, 40 workers were retrenched and claim they were never paid severance packages. The restaurant later reopened under Mthembu’s name.
Now, more than 360 current and former workers have lodged complaints with the Independent Human Rights Commission, saying they face unfair deductions and abuse.
Staff say they are fined up to R1,000 for broken glasses or expired food, and even car guards and bouncers are charged. Others claim they pay R300 for transport whether they use it or not and R450 whenever Mthembu enters the kitchen with a gas cylinder.
Waitress Mandy Mgcinwa said she was served with legal papers after she spoke out online about not being paid. Her wages were released only after the post went viral.
IHRC deputy commissioner Siphokazi Mbalo said if the claims are true, they violate labour rights. The commission has written to Mthembu’s lawyers demanding payments and an end to “exploitive practices.”
The EFF said the exploitation has robbed workers of dignity, forcing some into debt.
Pictured above: EFF members protest outside Cofi at the Boardwalk Shopping Centre in Gqeberha.
Image source: EFF Nelson Mandela Bay Region
