At least 151 casual workers have signed contracts with a new sub-contractor of the Greater Pioneer Operating Company (GPOC) in Unity oilfield, Rubkona County, Unity State. These workers, who had been in casual positions from 2019 to June 2024, began signing the contracts last week following several protests against GPOC.
Protests have been ongoing in the Unity oilfield since May, with workers demanding permanent employment.
Duol Riang, chairman of the casual workers, confirmed to Radio Tamazuj Tuesday that 151 workers have now signed contracts after extensive protests in the oilfield.
The contract policy for the 151 casual workers involves only oral interviews, ensuring that no one is left out, according to Riang. “Everyone will sign the contracts,” he stated.
“I am very grateful to the national Ministry of Petroleum for acknowledging our peaceful protests over the last two months. Our protests were our right,” he said. “The net salary we will receive at the end of each month is 450 USD, up from the previous 250,000 SSP. Those who have not signed a contract will be paid SSP 225,000.”
“Although 450 USD is not enough, especially as we have children who need to attend school this year, we accepted it. They assured us there would be an increase after six months,” Riang explained.
Meanwhile, Arop Rech, one of the casual workers, confirmed that his colleagues signed their contracts last week. “Some people haven’t signed the contract yet, but they are expected to do so this week,” Arop explained. “They are going step by step, and once they finish with the rest of the departments, they will come to us for signing.”
“We will wait for them to come to us so we can sign our contracts, as we are all aware of the terms,” Arop added.