CHINESE CONTRACTORS ON SPOT OVER HARASSMENT OF WORKERS ON RUKUNGIRI- KANUNGU ROAD

By Ambrose Kweronda

www.mkneslink.com

In Kanungu—

The Chinese contractors for Rukungiri– Ishasha – Kihihi – Kanungu Road have been accused of harassing their workers several of whom claim the Chinese managers have physically assaulted them.

Kanungu Deputy RDC Rugaju told www.mknewslink.com that he is currently handling several claims related to workers’ harassment by the contractors.

He added that he decided to call for two separate meetings with the contractor, China Henan International Cooperation Group Co Ltd (CHICO) at his office after receiving verbal and written complaints from the workers that they are mistreated while at work.

The Deputy RDC said that one of the employees was physically assaulted and ended up being admitted at Kilembe Hospital after his ribs were shattered and was abandoned in hospital in Bwindi Community Hospital before being transferred.

He revealed that another employee who allegedly got an accident was also admitted to Kilembe Hospital which specializes in bone fractures but his bills have not been paid up to date.

The services of one Kirumira Emmanuel were terminated after his dangerous mechanical truck over turned. He was issued a termination letter and demanded to pay 15M for the damaged appliances, according to the RDC.

Rugaju also said that he has received numerous reports where the workers are beaten up by Chinese workers and some have gone for two months without being paid.

The 78.5km Rukungiri – Kanungu – Ishasha Road was handed over to the contractor in 2018 and was supposed to be completed in a period of 36 months (3 years) but although this was extended by Government for another 6 months only 35% of the project work is completed.

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