The Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) has claimed that Lev Leviev Diamonds’ (LLD) polishing facility in Windhoek fired two workers who are also members of the union’s executive committee. LLD has denied the allegations.

MUN’s general secretary, Joseph Hengari, told The Namibian that the two were fired; they were among 80 other polishers suspended last week after participating in an illegal strike. “The law is very clear; you cannot dismiss employees while they are on strike or on suspension,” Hengari said.

LLD Managing Director Kombadyedu Kapwanga said in reaction that the firm is still in discussions with the union and that it is untrue that any workers had been dismissed.

The controversy apparently started when the employees went on strike and demanded the resignation of General Manager Mike Nesongano, accused him of ‘various improprieties,’ according to the news source.