The strike, which has now become an indefinite walkout, is apparently in response to the company’s refusal to recognise the union and grant it the organisational rights necessary to protect workers’ interests in the workplace.

The ongoing labour dispute stems from a deadlock between Numsa and the employer over the union’s request for organisational rights at Lesedi Aluminium, a manufacturer located in Thaba Nchu. Earlier this week, 270 workers out of an approximate 300-strong workforce were officially signed out, signalling the start of the industrial action, said Numsa national spokesperson Phakamile Hlubi. 

“We deadlocked with the employer over organisational rights in the workplace and the CCMA granted the union a certificate to strike.”

Numsa’ primary demand is for Lesedi Aluminium to formally recognise the union, allowing it to exercise its rights to represent workers. This request has been met with resistance, as it is understood that Lesedi Aluminium has yet to provide any meaningful response to the demands made by workers’ representatives.

“Lesedi Aluminium is managed by Johan Botha, who keeps referring the union to its owner, a Mr Pan, who is Chinese and based in Shanghai,” said Hlubi. “It is deeply disappointing that in 2025, workers are forced to embark on a strike just to exercise their constitutionally protected right to join a union of their choice.

“It is disgraceful that brutal employers are still resorting to Apartheid tactics and undermining the constitution by denying workers the right to join a union of their choice,” Hlubi emphasised the importance of upholding South Africa’s laws, regardless of who owns the company. 

“We expect all companies, whether they are owned by Chinese nationals or Europeans, to adhere to the laws of this country, including the constitution and labour laws.” Her comments reflect Numsa’s broader stance on ensuring that all employers – foreign or local – respect the rights of South African workers.

Last year, the Free State Premier, MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, expressed strong concerns over the ongoing exploitation of workers in the province, particularly in private sector enterprises. Letsoha-Mathae’s intervention came in the wake of several complaints about poor working conditions at a steel company also based in Thaba Nchu.

Numsa reiterated its call for solidarity within the workforce of Lesedi Aluminium/Big Cookware, which comes against this backdrop of heightened awareness around workers’ rights and the continued fight for fair treatment in the workplace.

“We condemn the owners of the company for their stubborn refusal to recognise the union, and for going as far as attempting to limit the constitutional right of workers to join the union of their choice,” added Hlubi.

OFM News has contacted Lesedi Aluminium/Big Cookware for comment.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh