Inspection report reveals abuses at Standard Bank Mozambique

The report, which has now been finalised by the Commission, highlights an "excessive zeal" in the bank’s operational practices, according to internal sources who had access to the document. However, its public release was initially delayed, pending the signature of Labour and Social Security Minister Margarida Talapa, who is currently engaged in the electoral campaign.

The Commission of Inquiry visited all Standard Bank branches nationwide, gathering testimony from current and former employees to verify the claims. During the process, several violations of labour regulations were identified, including unjustified dismissals and poor working conditions. According to a former bank employee, the Commission’s findings have resulted in a fine being imposed on the institution.

Ministry of labour denies report delays

Despite allegations that the report was being "held up" due to the minister's absence, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security denied these claims. A spokesperson for the ministry assured that the inspection was thoroughly conducted across all of the bank’s branches and that the delay in publication was not linked to the minister’s absence. "Our goal is to ensure that both the state’s and workers’ interests are protected, which is why we conducted a detailed inspection at all Standard Bank branches across the country," the spokesperson stated.

Accusations against workers' union

Alongside the inspection’s findings, accusations have also emerged against the Standard Bank Workers' Union, with some claimants alleging that the union withheld crucial information during the inquiry process to protect the bank's current Board of Directors. Some former employees claim that a senior union leader at the bank was promoted in exchange for his silence on the institution’s irregularities.

The union leader, Bernardo, categorically denied the accusations, clarifying that his change of position did not involve a salary increase and that the union has acted transparently. "If people believe that a change in position equals a promotion, they are mistaken. I simply changed roles without any pay raise," he explained.

Ongoing legal proceedings

Standard Bank continues to face several lawsuits filed by former employees over illegal dismissals and mistreatment. However, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security indicated that it would not intervene in these cases, as they are now under the jurisdiction of the courts and beyond the scope of an amicable resolution.

With the Commission of Inquiry's report complete, the next step will be its official distribution to the relevant parties, including Standard Bank and the union, so that necessary measures can be taken to address the identified violations and ensure compliance with labour laws in the country.