By Min Ni Kyaw - Dec 20, 2024

Majority of workers at the Dishang Group (Great Summer/Huaxia) garment factory are protesting within the workplace, according to employees. The protests reportedly began on the afternoon of December 18, workers said.

"The factory's manager, a Chinese woman, has been spreading divisive remarks among the workers and leaders to disrupt their unity. The previous factory manager was removed, claiming the factory was running at a loss. In addition, some leaders have been promoted with pay raises and are made to pressure workers. Leaders who refuse to accept these conditions are being prepared for termination. Workers are protesting because they know about this. The main demand is for the reinstatement of the former factory manager," said the workers.

The Great Summer/Huaxia garment factory is located in the Anawrahta Industrial Zone, and within the factory compound, there are three other factories owned by Dishang Group, workers said.

"There are a total of four factories in the compound, including Great Summer. Over 700 workers are participating in the current workplace protests. Workers from the quality assurance department, 11 production lines, and the packing department are participating. There are also difficulties with access to drinking water and ferry transport. These issues have also been raised as part of the demands," said a female worker.

Inside the factory, three supervisors oversee 16 production lines, with protests originating from 11 of these lines and other departments. The workers stated that the current protest is peaceful and that they have informed the Township Labour Office to help resolve the situation.