The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Labour Desk in Matatiele has intervened in a labour dispute involving workers at the local Boxer store. Following a meeting with management and worker representatives, all planned dismissals and disciplinary hearings have been paused.
What Happened
EFF Labour Desk representative Fighter Nkosi Mafilika led a delegation of workers and shop stewards in a meeting on 05 January 2026 with the Boxer Provincial Manager and Regional Manager. The engagement addressed complaints about:
- Recent dismissals of workers
- Poor local management practices
- Ongoing disciplinary hearings
According to the EFF Labour Desk, Boxer management agreed to suspend all further dismissals until internal investigations are complete. Disciplinary proceedings have also been halted while the Provincial Manager conducts a full review of the Matatiele branch.
Agreement Reached
Key resolutions from the meeting include:
- No further dismissals until all concerns are resolved
- All disciplinary hearings halted pending investigation
- Provincial Manager to assess the conduct of local management
EFF representatives have committed to monitoring the process and supporting workers through the investigation phase.
Community Labour Concerns
The Matatiele Boxer store is one of the area’s busiest retail employers. Workers have expressed concerns over job security and workplace conditions in recent weeks.
EFF’s intervention is part of its broader campaign to address labour rights and unfair treatment of workers in Eastern Cape retail stores.
