Leopard match workers on strike, demand bonuses and xmas gifts

Over 250 workers from a match making firm, Leopard Matches Limited in Blantyre have downed tools, demanding end of year bonuses and Christmas gifts.

The workers have vowed not to return to work until management bows down to the demands.

On Wednesday, the strike was in full swing as the Leopard Match premises were deserted.

Management refused to grant Nyasa Times a formal interviiew, saying  the were waiting for the Malawi Congress of Trade Unions to mediate.

One of the management team who refused to be identified, ruled out the management implementing the demands, saying they are unrealistic in this hostile economic climate the country is going through.

He said the country is going through severe financial problems.

Workers union representative Siphton Banda told the media his fellow workers are disgruntled that the company stopped provision of onuses and Christmas gifts seven years ago.