The South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) strongly condemns the false and misleading statements made by Mr Thomas Samson, the Business Rescue Practitioner (BRP) of Northwest Transport Investment (NTI), during his interview on Power FM on 2 September 2025.
Disregard for Court Order and Workers’ Rights
Mr Samson blatantly ignored a Gauteng North High Court ruling that ordered NTI to pay workers’ salaries within 48 hours. Despite this legal directive, employees remained unpaid for over a week and only received their salaries on 4 September 2025. This delay is not only disrespectful—it undermines the authority of the South African judicial system and insults the dignity of NTI workers.
Failure of Leadership and Mismanagement
Mr Samson claims NTI is operating at a loss. However, SATAWU attributes the crisis to his own conduct, which has been marked by:
- Non-compliance with legal and financial obligations
- Corruption and nepotism
- Maladministration and mismanagement
Appointed in 2022 to rescue NTI, Mr Samson has failed to fulfil his mandate. A court has already declared him unfit to hold the BRP position, yet he continues to appeal—seemingly to protect his own interests while workers suffer.
Questionable Service Provider Deals
SATAWU is deeply concerned about Mr Samson’s alleged ties to service providers, many of whom are reportedly his personal associates. While NTI workers go unpaid, millions of rands are being funnelled to these entities monthly. This is not business rescue—it is financial exploitation.
Ghost Employees Allegation: A Deflection Tactic
Mr Samson’s claim about the existence of ghost employees at NTI is baseless. If such individuals exist, they are likely among his own network of service providers. After three years in office, his ignorance of NTI’s daily operations is alarming. SATAWU challenges him to publicly disclose the number of ghost employees.
Absence from NTI Offices
Mr. Samson has not set foot in NTI offices for over two years, yet continues to call himself the BRP. His prolonged absence speaks volumes about his lack of commitment and accountability.
SATAWU Rejects Retrenchment Threats
SATAWU firmly rejects Mr Samson’s reckless suggestion that retrenchments are necessary. No NTI worker will be retrenched as long as SATAWU remains the majority union. NTI has the capacity to function and pay salaries—provided that incompetent leadership is removed.
Call to Action
Mr. Thomas Samson is a barrier to progress at NTI. SATAWU will continue to fight for his removal and is confident that his appeal will be dismissed. He must stop wasting taxpayers’ money and vacate his position immediately.
Commitment to Workers
To all NTI employees and SATAWU members: the union remains committed to ensuring that every outstanding salary is paid. NTI is a public entity, not Mr Samson’s personal enterprise. SATAWU will keep you informed as this matter unfolds.
Issued by:
South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU)
📞 Tel: 010 065 1690
📧 Email: Amanda@satawu.org.za
🌐 Website: www.satawu.org.za
