Hyatt Regency Harare, formerly known as Meikles Hotel, a leading establishment in Zimbabwe, is currently facing significant controversy due to serious allegations against its general manager, Jonas Amstad. The controversy revolves around claims of racism and violations of labor laws.
A group of employees has formally lodged a complaint with the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, urging immediate intervention. The complaint details several grievances against Amstad, including claims that he has consistently made racist comments and slurs, thereby fostering a hostile work environment. The employees assert that Amstad’s behavior is inconsistent with the values upheld by the hotel’s owner, Ali Albwardy, and the Hyatt brand.
The complaint letter emphasizes, “We believe that Mr. Albwardy is a genuine investor deserving of our support, and we support the President’s vision expressed during the Hyatt Regency’s launch.” However, the letter also states, “Jonas Amstad’s actions have undermined our trust and are not in line with the investor’s vision or the President’s expectations.”
The letter outlines specific issues including Amstad’s use of racist language, verbal abuse of staff, neglect of labor laws concerning leave accruals, and favoritism with clear racial biases. It calls for Amstad’s immediate removal, arguing that his “racist behavior and militant attitude” are harmful to the hotel’s success. The employees highlight concerns about recent redundancies and contract terminations, noting that such actions are contributing to a sense of instability and job insecurity.
“We are strongly opposed to his racist behavior and authoritarian approach in a hospitality environment,” the letter states. “We do not want the public to perceive a facade of normalcy while serious issues persist internally. We demand his immediate removal and the appointment of a principled manager who aligns with Hyatt’s values and focuses on business.”
The letter also mentions the upcoming SADC (Southern African Development Community) conference and stresses the importance of maintaining a positive work environment. It suggests that the current leadership under Amstad is unacceptable and proposes that employees are prepared to stay away from work if necessary until the issue is resolved.
Employees are willing to provide information anonymously due to fears of retaliation. They are calling for an inquiry to address their grievances and protect them from further victimization. Efforts to reach Jonas Amstad for a comment were unsuccessful at the time of publication.
In other news – Baba Harare discusses new wife and bold decision to leave Jiti
Musician Baba Harare has recently addressed speculation surrounding his personal life and professional shift from Jiti to gospel music. The comments come in response to a report by the daily tabloid H-Metro, which suggested that Baba Harare’s transition to gospel music was influenced by his new wife. The musician has clarified these claims, revealing the truth about his marital status and his reasons for changing his musical direction.
In response to the tabloid report, Baba Harare refuted claims that he recently married, explaining that he and his wife have been married for some time but chose to keep their relationship private. Read More
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