Unik construction under spotlight over alleged ill-treatment of Malawian workers

Unik Construction Company, the contractor responsible for the construction of several roads around Mzimba Boma, is facing growing scrutiny following allegations that its management has been ill-treating Malawian workers by dismissing several employees without due process and failing to pay outstanding terminal benefits.

The controversy has emerged amid mounting complaints from affected employees who claim they were abruptly dismissed without valid reasons, disciplinary hearings, or proper written notices raising serious concerns about the company’s compliance with Malawi’s labour laws.

In response to the allegations, Malawi24 formally wrote to Unik Construction’s Human Resources Department seeking clarification on the reported dismissals. The media house submitted a detailed questionnaire requesting confirmation on whether employees had been terminated, the number of workers affected, and the official reasons behind the decisions. The inquiry also sought to establish whether procedures outlined in Malawi’s Employment Act were followed prior to the dismissals.

Malawi24 has established that some former employees allege they were dismissed without being subjected to disciplinary hearings, a key requirement under Malawi’s labour regulations. Questions have also been raised over whether the affected workers received written termination notices clearly outlining the grounds for their dismissal.

Beyond the alleged terminations, concerns over unpaid benefits have further heightened tensions. Reports indicate that some dismissed workers have yet to receive their final salaries and other terminal dues. Malawi24 asked the company to clarify which payments remain outstanding, the reasons for the delays, and when the affected workers should expect full payment.

The matter has reportedly attracted the attention of the Labour Office, with claims that some former employees have lodged formal complaints. Malawi24 also sought confirmation on whether Unik Construction is handling any labour disputes through the Labour Office and whether labour authorities have engaged the company’s Human Resources Department over the alleged wrongful dismissals.

The questionnaire further pressed the company on its overall compliance with the Employment Act, the existence and effectiveness of its internal dispute resolution mechanisms, and how employees are informed of their rights and responsibilities during disciplinary proceedings. Unik Construction was also asked to outline measures being implemented to prevent similar disputes in the future.

In the interest of transparency and accountability, Malawi24 invited Unik Construction to issue an official statement on the matter and to engage directly with the affected workers. The company was also asked whether its Human Resources Department intends to meet with the dismissed employees to address their concerns.

However, after several follow-ups, Malawi24 received a brief response via WhatsApp from a man identified only as Elisha, who stated: “I don’t provide company information just like that, and to someone whom I don’t know. Sorry for that.”

Despite this response, Malawi24 had already provided full identification and professional credentials in its correspondence with the company.

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