A well-known traditional healer from the Free State has come under scrutiny after several of her employees accused her of abuse, exploitation, and poor working conditions.
The allegations come from workers based at a warehouse in Botshabelo, where the healer, Mabodiba Thabana, reportedly runs her business operations. Employees claim the workplace environment has become hostile, citing ongoing verbal abuse, intimidation, and unfair labour practices.
According to the workers, they are frequently shouted at, insulted, and humiliated while on duty. Some say even elderly employees are not treated with respect, with harsh language and degrading behavior allegedly being part of daily operations. One worker explained that staff members often feel powerless, especially when trying to raise concerns about their salaries or working conditions.
Employees also claim that speaking up comes with consequences. They allege that management threatens them with job losses, warning that the business could shut down at any time. This has reportedly created a culture of fear, leaving many workers feeling trapped and unable to voice their grievances openly.
The situation is said to be worsened by the involvement of the healer’s mother, who workers accuse of contributing to the toxic environment. She allegedly makes insulting remarks and reminds workers that they rely on her daughter for survival, further undermining their dignity.
Beyond verbal abuse, workers have raised concerns about their living and working conditions. Some claim they are forced to sleep inside the warehouse during night shifts, often on top of boxes without proper bedding or blankets. These conditions have sparked serious concerns about health and safety.
Transport is another major issue. Workers allege that they are not provided with transport when working late hours, leaving them stranded and vulnerable. Despite the demanding nature of their jobs, they also claim they are underpaid and do not receive overtime compensation, adding to their frustration.
Some employees have also pointed out what they see as a contradiction between the healer’s public image and her alleged treatment of staff. They claim she is known for acts of generosity on social media, such as giving money to those in need, while her own workers struggle under difficult conditions.
In response to the allegations, Thabana denied being aware of any complaints. She questioned why workers had not followed proper procedures to report their concerns, such as raising issues with management or approaching the Department of Labour.
She further stated that a manager is responsible for handling workplace issues and escalating them to her if necessary. Without formal complaints being submitted, she said she could not respond to allegations she had not been informed about.
The accusations have sparked wider conversations about workers’ rights and accountability, particularly in privately run businesses. Many are now calling for a thorough investigation to uncover the truth and ensure that employees are treated fairly and with dignity.
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